Federal resources mobilized to address health needs in Los Angeles County
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra has declared a Public Health Emergency (PHE) for California in response to the wildfires devastating Los Angeles County. The declaration grants CMS providers and suppliers additional flexibility to meet the emergency health needs of Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries.
“We will do all we can to assist California officials with responding to the health impacts of the devastating wildfires going on in Los Angeles County,” said Secretary Becerra. “We are working closely with state and local health authorities, as well as our partners across the federal government, and stand ready to provide public health and medical support. My thoughts and prayers are with the people impacted in my home state.”
Volunteers from the Long Beach Medical Reserve Corps are assisting local officials, and the HHS Disaster Distress Helpline is available to provide emotional support for those affected.
The HHS emPOWER program is aiding emergency planning by identifying at-risk Medicare beneficiaries who depend on critical medical equipment and services, such as oxygen tanks and dialysis. The federal health department has also waived some HIPAA Privacy Rule sanctions for hospitals in impacted areas to facilitate emergency care.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Becerra and federal health officials as they seek to support medical personnel during the wildfires in California.
- For first responders and firefighters as they seek to help or rescue people under threat from the fires.
Sources: Department of Health and Human Services
