TSO Network Update - September 2017

6 l September 2017 Patient Needs After Natural Disaster Tips for connecting with your community The most prevalent eye problems among evacuees of hurricanes are loss of glasses, loss of needed eye medications to manage glaucoma, flood-related infection, blunt trauma, and need for re-establishing ongoing care of chronic eye disease such as cataract, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy in the evacuee population. There may also be a need for diagnosis and management of acute eye problems such as new retinal breaks, and a limited number of penetrating globe injuries and orbital fractures. Here’s some issues that Texans who are affected by a hurricane can face: • Lack of medical records • Lack of transportation and contact information for continuity of care • Lack of funds to purchase glasses and medication Here are some tips for assisting and connecting with your community after a natural disaster. TIPS 1. Stay involved on social media to connect with patients to help them with their needs. Provide tips on survival until they are able to receive eye care assistance (EX: Dealing with dry eye with no artificial tears? Here’s how to increase comfort until you can receive professional help.) You can use the following social media sites/apps: a. NextDoor b. Facebook c. Twitter d. Instagram e. Help A Reporter Out 3. If your office is not accessible, provide screenings, if possible, at local churches and community centers and refer patients to other local eye care providers. TSO Network Office can assist you with basic screening kit supplies as much as possible. 2. Contact the Red Cross to locate local shelters that are in need of volunteers to provide healthcare assistance. You can find that information here: www.redcross.org/volunteer/ volunteer-opportunities