Go Bag Medical Essentials: A Doctor's Advice

From floods to prolonged power outages, emergencies can happen with little warning. But having some essentials ready can make an unexpected evacuation more manageable.

"New Yorkers are used to getting anything they need, anytime, but even here, every household should have a go bag ready," says emergency medicine physician Erica Olsen, MD. "In an emergency, you can't count on usual routines or services."

Dr. Olsen lists the medical items every household should pack in their go bag, and shares additional considerations for those with chronic health conditions.

Why is it important to prepare medical supplies in case of emergency?

During a public emergency, healthcare systems can become overwhelmed, making routine medical care, pharmacies, and transportation more difficult to access.

Dr. Olsen remembers Hurricane Sandy, when even healthcare workers struggled to get to the hospital, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, when hospitals were overwhelmed by patients, leaving others to manage routine health needs at home.

What medical essentials should be in a go bag?

"Having essential supplies and a plan in place helps reduce medical risks, stress, and preventable health emergencies," says Dr. Olsen.

Emergency resources such as Ready New York offer basic checklists with bottled water, nonperishable snacks, copies of documents (like birth certificates and photo IDs), cash, a flashlight, extra batteries, and other necessities.

In addition, Dr. Olsen advises that families include the following medical supplies:

• Medications: Have one- to two-week supplies of both prescription and essential over-the-counter medications, like pain relievers.
• Bottled water: Pack water not only for drinking but also for taking pills.
• Hard copy records: In case phones lose power or patient portals become inaccessible, include paper lists of your medication doses, medical conditions, allergies, and any care instructions.
• Medical devices: Hearing aids, medical alert devices, and other essential equipment should be included. If you don't have duplicates of certain items, like hearing aids, keep them on a list in your go bag so you can grab them in a rush.
• Vision supplies: Pack backup eyeglasses and extra contact lenses.
• First-aid supplies: Include adhesive bandages, antibiotic ointment, antiseptic wipes, and other basics, as suggested by resources like the American Red Cross.
• Batteries and chargers: Include whatever is needed to power your devices.
• Hand sanitizer

What should someone with a chronic condition add?

"People who regularly take medication or have other health needs should take extra steps before an emergency occurs," says Dr. Olsen.

If equipment, such as dialysis, oxygen, or other life-sustaining treatments, requires electricity, ask your healthcare provider about backup power options before an emergency. In addition, identify multiple facilities where you can receive care for ongoing treatment.

Where should I go if New York City issues an evacuation order?

Plan ahead by knowing your evacuation zone and identify healthcare facilities outside your immediate neighborhood. For more guidance and resources as well as New York City's Emergency Management resources at Be Ready New York.

"Preparation puts you in control. Families with their medications, medical information, and supplies ready aren't left waiting on a system that may be disrupted," says Dr. Olsen.

The best time to build a go bag isn't when a storm is approaching, she adds. It's before you need it.