In the Florida Panhandle and lower Alabama, disaster preparedness and evacuation planning is essential to providing pharmacy services. As a pharmacy service provider, Guardian Pharmacy of Northwest Florida must have a plan in place so in the event of a natural disaster we can continue to provide quality care for each of our customers.
As you probably know, we are currently in hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30 each year. Because of the location of our pharmacy and the customers we serve, responding to a disaster timely and effectively is essential. State regulations require each community, as well as the pharmacy provider, to develop disaster plans. In recent years, these plans have been crucial.
Communication, staffing, transportation and evacuation planning are the most vital issues to consider. Many times relocating is not an option, so sheltering must be considered first. However, when an evacuation becomes necessary, communicating this to all service providers is at the top of our list. For Guardian Pharmacy, having six locations in Florida is beneficial in the event of any evacuation because we can rely on our partner pharmacies to help residents who may be evacuated to other areas. Additionally, having a database available to multiple pharmacies helps ease the process of relocation.
For questions regarding disaster preparedness or if you have any concerns regarding the safety of your community during an emergency, please contact our pharmacy at 850-306-3003. We are more than happy to help implement a preparedness plan for your community.
