The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts 13 to 20 named storms this hurricane season, and as Floridians prepare for an above average 2021 Atlantic hurricane season beginning June 1, the Florida Association of Managing Entities reminds Floridians that continuing to receive behavioral health care services in the aftermath of a storm is an important part of hurricane planning. Also, for disaster survivors who are displaced by a hurricane and coping with loss, stress and anxiety, behavioral health care services are available in hurricane shelters and elsewhere.
“Hurricane preparedness starts with the essentials, like water and food, but it should also include knowing how to take care of your mental health in the wake of a disaster,” said Florida Association of Managing Entities CEO Natalie Kelly. “Behavioral health care providers in Florida have emergency preparedness plans so they can continue to provide services to existing clients and meet the needs of disaster survivors who need mental health services.”
Florida’s seven Managing Entities, which oversee Florida’s behavioral health care safety net system that serves uninsured Floridians, ensure that network providers have emergency preparedness plans that include a recovery plan for continuity of services during and after an emergency, alternative accommodations for clients, supplies and more.
Also, after a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration, Managing Entities manage the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Crisis Counseling Program (CCP) for disaster survivors who need immediate behavioral health care services. CCP services include referrals to health and mental health services, disaster recovery resources, and tangible goods.
About the Florida Association of Managing Entities
The Florida Association of Managing Entities (FAME) is the statewide organization representing Florida’s seven Managing Entities. FAME’s mission is to advance the behavioral health recovery of individuals and their families in the state of Florida. More information about FAME is available at flmanagingentities.com.
