What if you are going through an exam and a patient mentions that their electricity has been disconnected. This is something you can’t ignore as power is vital to living well.
What’s your next move? For private healthcare owners and medical professionals, this moment can feel outside your area of expertise.
However, understanding how to react quickly and compassionately can make all the difference.
What Does the Research Say?
A study from the NIH shows that about 685,000 people in the U.S. rely on powered medical equipment to stay alive, all while living at home.
On top of that, socioeconomic factors make things even harder—research from Columbia’s Diana Hernández reveals that 16 million low-income households in the U.S. struggle with energy insecurity. For these individuals, electricity isn’t just a convenience—it’s essential, especially for those who depend on medical devices.
If this situation arises in your practice, it’s not just about medical expertise; it’s about taking proactive steps to help your patient regain stability. Here’s what you need to know and do when faced with this critical issue.
First, Understand the Risks
For patients who rely on electricity to power life-sustaining medical devices, such as oxygen concentrators, ventilators, or refrigeration for essential medications, losing power can quickly escalate into a life-threatening situation.
Immediate Health Concerns
Without power, your patient could face risks such as:
- Compromised medical devices: Powered equipment may stop functioning entirely.
- Loss of refrigerated medication: Insulin or other temperature-sensitive medications may spoil.
- Heatstroke or hypothermia during extreme weather.
Your first reaction should be assessing your patient’s current condition. Are they at immediate risk? If so, consider directing them to emergency services or arranging temporary accommodations through local shelters or community support networks.
Step 1: Show Empathy and Gather Key Information
This can be a vulnerable and stressful moment for your patient. Approach the conversation with empathy to build trust and gather necessary details.
- Ask open-ended questions like, “Do you rely on any medical equipment that requires power?” or “How have you been managing?”
- Understand their timeline. When was the power shut off, and do they have an estimate of when it may be restored?
Be sure to show that their health and well-being is your top priority, while also letting them know you’re ready to help find solutions.
Step 2: Know the Resources in Your Community
One of the most impactful ways you can assist is by connecting your patient to local and national resources. Many communities have emergency programs for energy support.
Look Into Utility Assistance Programs
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Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
LIHEAP offers financial assistance to low-income households to prevent disconnection or help restore power. Direct your patients to their local community action agencies to apply. -
Utility Supplier Programs
Some electricity providers offer last-resort programs for medically vulnerable residents. These can include deferred payments or assistance with reconnecting services.
Contact Nonprofits
Nonprofit organizations like the Red Cross or Salvation Army may also provide short-term support or financial assistance for utility bills.
Step 3: Create a Backup Plan for Medical Devices
Patients who rely on life-sustaining equipment need a contingency plan in case of future outages. This is where private healthcare owners can make an enormous difference.
Emergency Battery Solutions
Educate your patients about battery-powered alternatives for their medical equipment. Some manufacturers provide portable versions of devices, such as oxygen concentrators with rechargeable batteries.
Power Outage Registries
Many utility companies allow residents with medical needs to register for priority restoration during outages. Help your patients enroll in these programs to minimize risks in the future.
Community Partnerships
Consider building relationships with local shelters or community centers. During prolonged outages or disconnections, patients can relocate temporarily to receive power-dependent care.
Step 4: Use This as an Opportunity to Strengthen Your Practice
Responding to situations like this with care and diligence strengthens the trust between you and your patients. Particularly for private healthcare owners, your ability to step in and help during personal crises can set your practice apart.
Make sure to highlight this aspect of patient care in your mission statement or practice website. Show that you stand by patients—not just during office visits but in all aspects of their well-being.
Conclusion
When your patient tells you their utilities have been shut off, it’s not just a logistical problem—it’s a health crisis. By responding swiftly and compassionately, connecting them with the right resources, and advocating for long-term solutions, you aren’t just treating a patient; you’re actively saving lives.
If you’re ready to take the next step in preparing your practice to address these issues, explore the data and insights into energy insecurity. Build partnerships with local organizations today to ensure you’re ready to support your patients tomorrow.
