TAMPA, Fla. – Hillsborough County health officials are warning residents with medical conditions not to wait until a storm hits to plan their emergency shelter options.
The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough) issued a reminder this week urging individuals who require specialized medical assistance to register with the Florida Special Needs Shelter Registry. Officials emphasize that signing up early is critical, especially before the peak of hurricane season arrives between mid-August and mid-October.
The registry is designed for individuals with stable medical conditions who require equipment or care that standard emergency shelters cannot provide. This includes people who depend on oxygen, electricity for medical devices, or dialysis, as well as those needing physical, cognitive, or professional medical support. Caregivers are also being asked to ensure their loved ones or patients are registered as soon as possible.
Health officials noted that submitting an application does not automatically guarantee a spot in a special needs shelter. Once a resident registers online by creating a new account or logging into an existing one, DOH-Hillsborough reviews the medical information. This vetting process ensures that the applicant qualifies and that the assigned shelter is fully equipped to handle their specific individual needs.
For those who qualify and may need to evacuate to a special needs shelter, DOH-Hillsborough released a checklist of essential items that residents must bring with them:
- A written list of all current medications and exact dosages
- A 30-day supply of all required medications
- Vital medical equipment, especially for individuals who are oxygen or electrically dependent
- Backup energy and power sources for all essential medical equipment
- Any specialized foods or items required for strict dietary needs
- Personal and medical identification, including a photo ID, insurance cards, emergency contact lists, and contact information for a primary care doctor
Once the registration process is complete, DOH-Hillsborough will send out additional information to applicants regarding their specific evacuation and sheltering options.
Residents looking for more information or assistance with the registry can contact the DOH-Hillsborough Special Needs Shelter Program office directly at 813-307-8063. Because the phone line is not staffed during all standard business hours, callers should leave their name and contact details so staff members can return the call.
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