FHCA Releases Emergency Preparedness in Long Term Care Report

Tallahassee, Fla. - The Florida Health Care Association (FHCA) is spotlighting the year-round efforts of Florida’s long term care and skilled nursing centers to safeguard residents before, during, and after emergencies. FHCA’s new preparedness report, “Emergency Preparedness in Long Term Care” (linked here), highlights how proactive planning, partnerships, and communication continue to make Florida a national leader in disaster response and recovery. 

“Maintaining the gold standard in long term care goes beyond providing quality care day to day,” said Emmett Reed, FHCA Chief Executive Officer. “The gold standard is forged in disaster preparedness and tested with every storm. Through proactive planning and strong partnerships, our centers lead the nation in long term care. We look forward to continued collaboration with providers, officials, and stakeholders to strengthen proven practices and embrace innovations that uphold the highest quality of care for Florida families.” 

The report outlines how facilities prepare to shelter in place, safely evacuate, and address the emotional and psychological impacts of relocation, known as transfer trauma. It also shares lessons learned from the 2024 hurricane season — when three major storms tested Florida’s preparedness system — and highlights challenges and best practices identified during FHCA’s statewide member roundtables.

Through three statewide hurricane preparedness roundtables held in June 2025, FHCA brought together the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA), Division of Emergency Management, Department of Health, local emergency managers, utility providers, and member centers to identify solutions for stronger alignment between state, county, and facility-level emergency response. These discussions generated actionable recommendations to improve coordination, communication, and decision-making to help residents and staff remain safe, supported, and connected when disaster strikes. 

“The work being done to ensure Florida’s long-term care facilities are prepared for emergencies is incredibly important,” said Rep. Jennifer Canady, who worked closely with FHCA and its central Florida members during the 2024 storm season. “These meetings highlight the value of collaboration and planning when it comes to protecting our vulnerable seniors and ensuring Florida continues to lead the way in these efforts.” 

FHCA supports its members year-round through training, resources, and best practices that strengthen emergency preparedness. The Association plays a vital role in identifying challenges, amplifying provider needs, and promoting coordination among key stakeholders. 

Learn more in FHCA’s emergency preparedness report and on its long term care preparedness protocols website at fhcahurricaneprep.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 13, 2025

PRESS CONTACT:
Kristen Knapp, APR
850-510-4389 or kknapp@fhca.org