For people living with cancer, however, there are a few extra precautions to take into consideration.
Here are four tips to help you get ‘emergency ready’:
Tips for being ready for storm season when you have cancer
As we enter into storm season, it’s important for everyone to be prepared for emergencies that might arise.As we enter into storm season, it’s important for everyone to be prepared for emergencies that might arise.
1. Your Medicines List
Make sure your medicines list is up to date and easily accessible. As an extra precaution, share it with a family member or nominate an emergency contact person, so you have a backup in case of an emergency.
2. Medical information
Keep important medical information handy in case of emergencies. This might include information about your diagnosis and treatment plan, any allergies you have, or your test results and other reports.
3. Contact List
Keep a list of important contact numbers including:
- your local Icon Cancer Centre
- your oncologist or haematologist
- your general practitioner
- your pharmacy
- any emergency contact family members or friends.
4. Stay Informed
Stay up to date with the latest weather warnings and road reports from your State Health department, police and emergency services.
Your care at IconYour care at Icon
What should I do if I have an appointment at Icon during a severe weather event?
In severe weather situations, or where there is a risk of flooding in your area, please only consider travelling to your appointments if it is safe to do so. Do not travel in unsafe conditions or place yourself at risk.
Before you leave for your appointment, please check the road conditions and for any road closures along your route. Please do not attempt to drive through flood waters or put yourself in danger at any time.
What happens if I can’t make my appointment at Icon due to weather?
Your safety is our priority. If you can’t make your appointment due to poor weather conditions or other emergency situations, please let us know as soon as possible and we will reschedule it for you. If you have an appointment that doesn’t involve a medical treatment or procedure, it can be changed to a telehealth appointment if needed.
If you are unwell and need medical help, please contact your local emergency services.
At Icon, we’re here to help. For advice about how to be emergency prepared and what precautions you should take for your individual situation, please don’t hesitate to ask your Icon care team or call your local Icon Cancer Centre.
ReferencesReferences
For a full list of references, click here.
Managing your cancer care during an emergency (2022) Cancer.Net. Available at: https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/managing-your-care/managing-your-cancer-care-during-emergency (Accessed: December 18, 2022).
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) (2022) Managing your medicines in an emergency, Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Available at: https://www.tga.gov.au/news/blog/managing-your-medicines-emergency (Accessed: December 18, 2022).
Managing your cancer care during an emergency. Cancer.Net. (2022, March 21). Retrieved December 18, 2022, from https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/managing-your-care/managing-your-cancer-care-during-emergency
The content found on the Icon Cancer Centre website is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be considered as medical advice. It is not a substitute for consulting with a qualified medical professional. Our website is designed to provide information and support to the general public. Please be mindful that we do not dispense medical advice, and for personalised medical guidance, we strongly advise you to consult with a qualified medical professional or doctor.
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