Advocates for Georgia's Elderly Since 1953

Blog

GHCA Assists GA Long Term Care Providers to Prepare Ahead of Tropical Storm Helene

For Immediate Release
September 25, 2024
 

As Tropical Storm Helene is anticipated to impact Georgia later this week, the Georgia Health Care Association (GHCA) stands ready to assist long term care providers in the state in their preparedness efforts.
 
“Our members' highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of the seniors and vulnerable individuals in their care, and we are committed to assisting them to prepare for Helene's potential impact,” said GHCA President & CEO Chris Downing. “As the storm approaches landfall in the states, GHCA has activated our emergency response activities, and we are maintaining close communication with our members and state partners.”
 
GHCA and its members are working closely with the Department of Public Health's (DPH) Emergency Preparedness and Response Team and other state partners ahead of the storm and will continue to do so throughout the weather event. Long term care communities across Georgia are reviewing their inclement weather plans and taking inventory of emergency supplies. Centers are also ensuring any agreements for transportation, patient transfers, food and water, external power supply (generators), etc. are functional and in place in the event of an evacuation or shelter-in-place. GHCA has advised members to monitor communications from GHCA and DPH regarding the storm. Additionally, members are maintaining close communications with their local healthcare coalition and county Emergency Management Agency (EMA).
 
“The Association and our members are monitoring the storm closely, and each of our centers are equipped with detailed emergency preparedness plans that outline specific safety measures to take as Helene draws near,” said Downing. “We will continue to do all we can to ensure the safety of residents and their dedicated caregivers before, during, and after the storm.”

For further information please contact:


Devon Barill, Director of Communications
Georgia Health Care Association
dbarill@ghca.info 
(678) 783-1703

Contributors