A Call to Action

Too often, HME providers neglect to anticipate that anything untoward might happen. But it does! Between hurricanes, fires, tornados and the other threats from nature (or those that are man-made), preparations for disaster must always be in place.

I live in Florida, and through the 20 years I have been here, we have experienced a tremendous amount of damage from hurricanes, and we have also had some serious forest fires. But I am proud to say that most Florida HME companies fared well despite these occurrences. Why? Because they planned ahead.

Of course you must plan for and make provisions for your patients, but as a home medical equipment provider, you must also protect your company. It represents your livelihood and that of your employees.

Make sure you know how to reach every one of your employees in a crisis. If possible, have those whose expertise is critical join you at the office, and alert all others. A disaster plan must be recorded so that both the company principals and employees know how and when to respond.

In the past, a disaster plan has been required by the industry's accrediting organizations. If you don't have a proper disaster plan, put one in place now.

Having the proper insurance also is a necessity. The right policies in the right amounts depend in part on your individual business — its size, location product line and range of services. Sit down with your agent (make sure you deal with one who understands the distinct insurance needs of the HME business) and go over every clause in every contract.

There are also a great many easy things you can do internally to protect your business. One simple example is to be sure that all your fire extinguishers have been checked and are fully operable. Make sure every member of your staff is trained in how to use them correctly.

Do you have a sufficient number of flashlights and a supply of batteries on hand? Is there enough drinking water available? Do you have several portable radios in key locations? You can hope they are never needed, but you should also know all the emergency telephone numbers you might require.

One provider told me that he keeps a copy of all his patient and business information on discs. He updates these discs every night and keeps them at his home just in case something should happen to his company computers.

All of the steps you take now will protect you, your employees and your company in the event of any disaster. Be sure you plan correctly, and maintain and check all arrangements and supplies regularly.

Please look at this as a call to action.