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The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

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Special Medical Needs Shelter

FDOH-Okeechobee County Emergency Preparedness

Who is Eligible? Okeechobee County Residents:

  • Who are dependent on electricity for oxygen therapy or other similar equipment.
  • Who have chronic illnesses, who need assistance and are medically stable.
  • Who are dependent on others for daily living activities.

What is available at the special medical needs shelter:

  • Limited medical personnel.
  • Cots that are 12”- 18” from the ground (heads do not elevate on some cots).
  • Basic meals (no special diets)

Transportation:

  • Transportation is available through Okeechobee County Emergency Management.
  • See registration form for more information.

What to bring from home:

  • Medications to last seven (7) days. They must be in their original labeled containers (both prescription and over the counter).
  • All personal medical equipment and supplies.
  • Bedding, pillows and blankets.
  • Personnel care items, clothing, jackets/sweaters.
  • Special diet foods and snacks.
  • Contact information for doctors, family, service providers and emergency contacts.
  • Books, magazines, cards and games.
  • Caregivers are required to come to the shelter to continue to provide care.

We do everything to provide a safe haven of last resort to residents who require special medical assistance. We do not have the facilities of a hospital and are limited in the ability to provide complex medical care and assistance. 

The Special Needs Shelter cannot accommodate the needs of pregnant women who are in labor or at risk of delivery. Pregnant women who have these conditions should contact their physician or midwife for advice prior to emergency evacuation.

Residents living in Assisted Living Facilities or Nursing Homes are not eligible to register for the Special Needs Shelter. These facilities are required to have emergency evacuation plans for their residents.

Qualify - How do I register?

Fill out the Special Needs Online Registration. Mail the completed form to:

Okeechobee Emergency Management
Special Needs Shelter Registry
707 NW 6th Street
Okeechobee, FL 34972

For questions:

Okeechobee County Emergency Management
707 NW 6th Street
Okeechobee, FL 34972
Phone: (863) 763-3212		Okeechobee County Health Department
1728 NW 9th Ave
Okeechobee, FL 34972
Phone: (863) 462-5800