If you have a medical condition that requires a greater level of care than that provided at a Mass Care shelter, but you do not require hospitalization or a medical institution, a Special Medical Needs Shelter may be appropriate for you. These shelters offer basic medical assistance and monitoring. They are staffed by qualified medical personnel and have back-up electricity for limited lighting and essential medical equipment. Family members and caregivers are encouraged to accompany residents with special medical needs. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. Pre-registration for the Special Medical Needs Shelter is open throughout the year, and while not required, is strongly encouraged to ensure that the shelter will be adequately prepared to meet your needs.
For questions or to register for placement in a Special Medical Needs Shelter, call Broward County Human Services Department at 954-357-6385 (TTY 954-357-5608).
About the Program:
English (PDF 306 KB)/Spanish (PDF 148 KB)/Creole (PDF 348 KB)
Instructions on How to Apply:
English (PDF 120 KB)/Spanish (PDF 125 KB)/Creole (PDF 107 KB)
Evacuation Transportation Assistance Application:
English (PDF 34 KB)/Spanish (PDF 451 KB)/Creole (PDF 324 KB)
What to Bring:
English (PDF 498 KB)/Spanish (PDF 960 KB)/Creole (PDF 540 KB)
Special Medical Needs Shelters are appropriate for someone who:
- has minor health/medical conditions that require professional observation, assessment, and maintenance
- requires assistance with personal care and/or assistance with medications but does not require hospitalization or a medical institution
- needs assistance with medication administration and/or vital sign readings and is unable to do so without professional assistance.
- All residents seeking shelter in a Special Medical Needs facility will be reviewed on an individual basis to determine the best placement for their needs.
Reasonable modifications will be made for shelter residents with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you need transfer assistance, sign language interpretation and other auxiliary aids, or a quiet zone for a cognitive disability or mental health need, call 954-357-6385 or TTY 954-357-5608 for the most updated information. As with all public places, residents with service animals accompanying them are welcome at all shelter sites.
Residents are encouraged to bring their caregiver and family members are welcome at all shelter sites.
What to Bring to a Special Medical Needs Shelter
DO Bring Any or All of these Items that Apply to You….
- A list of your current medications and at least a 7 day supply of the medications
- Documentation of specific medical information (including provider contact information)
- Medical equipment
- Oxygen supplies
- Nebulizers
- Wound Care supplies
- Ostomy supplies
- Catheter supplies
- Canes/Wheelchairs/lift equipment
- Batteries, chargers or repair kit for electric wheelchairs
- Diabetes equipment
- Glucose meter/strips/lancets
- Insulin/syringes
- Other insulin supplies
- Non-perishable dietary items
- Special dietary foods if required
- Snacks or other comfort foods (meals are provided at the shelter)
- Electronic equipment
- Flashlight
- Radio
- Extra batteries
- Cell phone and charger
- Personal Care
- Incontinence supplies
- Clothing
- Undergarments/Socks
- Shoes (durable)
- Personal hygiene items
- Soap/shampoo
- Deodorant
- Toothpaste/toothbrush
- Brush/comb
- Wash cloth
- Towel
- Sleeping lounging equipment
- Air mattress or cot for caregiver or family members (registered clients receive medical cots)
- Lawn/lounge chair/Sleeping bag
- Pillow
- Blanket
- Sheet
- Important papers
- I.D. with current address
- Entertainment items
- Books/Magazines
- Toys/Cards/Games
- Portable radio/CD/headset
- Infant care items
- First-aid kit
- Personal equipment
- Eyeglasses
- Hearing aids
- Dentures
- Service Animal Food and supplies (if applicable) and proof of current vaccinations
DO NOT Bring—THESE ITEMS ARE NOT ALLOWED AT THE SHELTERS
- Pets (however, service animals are welcome at all shelters and public places)
- Firearms or weapons
- Alcoholic beverages or illicit drugs
- Perishable food Items
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