Communities in hurricane-prone areas are receiving approximately $65 million in federal assistance from the Biden administration to keep primary-care services operational in future emergencies.
Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina and Puerto Rico will receive the funding to build new or renovate and repair existing health centers, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reported June 1. The projects would "prevent flooding, upgrade emergency generators, and improve communication and mechanical systems ahead of future disasters," the report states.
"Health centers are a cornerstone of our country’s health care system, especially for individuals and families who are uninsured; enrolled in Medicaid; and living in rural, remote, or underserved areas," HHS states in the news release.
Capital Assistance for Hurricane Response and Recovery Efforts funds are intended to be used to ensure health centers' ability to continue providing care during emergencies. Projects include replacing or upgrading emergency generators, mechanical systems and communication systems, and flood-prevention measures, from constructing flood walls to relocating the health center, according to the release.
“Last year, HRSA-funded health centers provided essential care to the people impacted by hurricanes Fiona and Ian,” Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra said in the release. “These new funds will make it possible for more individuals and families, especially those most often impacted by disasters and emergencies, to access health centers.”
The Biden administration is actively working to assist communities to address climate change and incorporate climate resilience into their future planning, the release states. Measures include modernizing building codes to make structures less polluting and more protective, and effectively use ecosystems such as wetlands, reefs and beaches as natural barriers that keep people safer during storms, according to the release.
“Through hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters, health centers keep their doors open and are a lifeline to services for patients and their communities. This funding helps make that possible,” HRSA Administrator Carole Johnson said in the release. “We are making this funding available to make sure health centers can respond in an emergency and continue to be cornerstones in their communities when they are needed most.”
The deadline for eligible Health Resources and Services Administration-funded health centers to submit applications is July 6.
