Week 1: Medical Aid Assistance for Disaster Survivors

Explore Week 1 medical aid for disaster survivors. Access prescriptions, first-aid, and mental health support from diverse organizations during your recovery.

By Murray Wennerlund, published September 28, 2023, updated September 05, 2025.

Medical Assistance and Healthcare Services

Replacing lost prescriptions, finding medical first-aid centers, and getting assistance with mental health issues are all critical needs after a disaster. Various organizations and agencies play a role in providing healthcare to disaster survivors.

How to Access Medical Assistance in the First Week After a Disaster

A step-by-step guide for disaster survivors to locate medical care, replace prescriptions, and connect with healthcare providers and emergency services during the critical first week.

Published: September 28, 2023 | Last Modified: September 05, 2025

Identify Immediate Medical Needs

Assess your household for urgent medical issues, lost prescriptions, or mental health needs. Prioritize first-aid, chronic condition management, and access to medications.

Locate Nearby Medical Services

Contact your local public health department or dial 211 to find nearby clinics, hospitals, or emergency medical teams. Red Cross and local shelters may also have medical triage stations.

Replace Lost Prescriptions

Reach out to local pharmacies, hospitals, or Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) volunteers. Some pharmaceutical companies may offer emergency refills or donation programs through relief partners.

Connect with Federal and NGO Resources

Use resources from HHS, ASPR, CDC, and HRSA. NGOs like Direct Relief and Americares provide mobile clinics, supplies, and mental health support in disaster zones.

Document and Follow Up

Keep records of all medical visits, prescriptions, and contacts. If your needs continue beyond the first week, contact your state medical society or FEMA for extended care coordination.

Here are some of the key providers of medical assistance and healthcare services:

Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and ASPR: Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response: These federal agencies are responsible for public health and healthcare services. Sub-agencies like the CDC and HRSA provide crucial medical support and resources during disasters.
Medical Reserve Corps (MRC): These are community-based volunteer organizations that provide medical services, including prescription and healthcare assistance, to disaster survivors. You can find their locations on the MRC Map.
Local Public Health Departments: These departments are vital in coordinating with local healthcare providers to ensure survivors can access necessary prescriptions and care.
Healthcare Providers and Hospitals: Local hospitals and medical facilities are essential first responders, offering immediate medical care, prescriptions, and services to those affected by a disaster.
Pharmaceutical Companies and Pharmacies: These businesses may assist in providing medications and prescriptions through donations or by coordinating with relief organizations.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Organizations such as Direct Relief, Americares, and International Medical Corps specialize in delivering medical assistance, healthcare services, and supplies during emergencies.
Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs): Specialized teams of medical professionals who deploy to disaster-stricken areas to provide immediate care and prescription distribution.
Local and State Medical Societies: These groups help coordinate medical volunteers and resources to meet the healthcare needs of the community after a disaster.
Disaster Medical Assistance Teams (DMATs): These are specialized teams of medical professionals trained to provide care during large-scale disasters and emergencies.

The specific organizations involved will depend on the disaster's nature, scope, and location. Effective coordination among all levels of government and non-governmental organizations is crucial to meet medical needs efficiently.