Don’t let your patients get scammed: Healthcare resource guide for LA wildfire victims
Key Takeaways
The Los Angeles wildfires have been wreaking havoc for more than a week. With more than 12,000 structures destroyed, and contaminated environments creating health risks, the chaos has also created opportunities for scams.[]
Fake donation sites, illegitimate crowdfunding, and unverified health resources are exploiting those affected by the wildfires, making it harder for them to access genuine help.[] If you're caring for impacted patients, you can share this list of verified healthcare resources.
Pharmaceuticals and other medical supplies
Evacuation services have caused many patients to leave behind essential medications and medical equipment, but they are not without options.
The official website of LA County's Department of Public Health includes a list of Disaster Recovery Centers that provide medication access as well as on-site nurses providing education and referrals, and temporary prescriptions, when necessary.
To locate pharmacies open during emergencies, physicians can direct their patients to RxOpen.
RxOpen and Teladoc Health are also offering free virtual consultations for non-emergency illnesses and prescription needs of wildfire victims.
Respiratory health supplies
Wildfire smoke poses a severe risk for patients with asthma, COPD, and emphysema. While the concentration of particulate matter of 2.5 microns (PM2.5) is slowly returning back to normal in most parts of LA, patients should be advised to wear N95 masks in order to reduce smoke inhalation in affected areas.[]
Real-time air quality monitoring apps like IQAir and AirNow can help individuals stay informed about air conditions.
Ensuring water and food safety
Per the AP, Pasadena Water and Power issued its first-ever "Do Not Drink" advisory, affecting about a third of customers.[] Damaged pumps, storage tanks, and homes have raised concerns about toxins contaminating the water supply.
Chemicals from burning plastics and building materials can also contaminate food and cookware with toxins that cannot be washed away.[]
Help patients stay informed about food safety and food assistance programs in the affected areas by directing them to Center for Preparedness and Response (CPR) and Listos California.
Advise patients to discard any fresh produce, raw foods, or open containers exposed to fumes. Perishables and pantry staples in non-airtight packaging stored above 40°F for more than 2 hours during a power outage should be thrown away.
ClimaMeter reports current meteorological conditions as 5°C warmer, up to 15% drier, and up to 20% windier than is typical for this time of year.[]
To mitigate heat-related illnesses, patients should be directed to cooling centers, like libraries or community centers. The LA County website includes an interactive map to find the cooling center closest to you.[]
Physicians can educate patients on recognizing signs of heatstroke and advise against strenuous activities during peak heat hours.
Mental health support amid displacement
Natural disasters often lead to anxiety, PTSD, and depression in those affected—worsened by displacement. By normalizing discussions about mental health and connecting patients to support networks, physicians can help mitigate the psychological toll of this disaster.
Free resources such as the national Disaster Distress Helpline (1-800-985-5990) and the LA County Mental Health Services website provide immediate crisis counseling and long-term therapy options.