The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has developed the following definition of at-risk individuals: “Before, during, and after an incident, members of at-risk populations may have additional needs in one or more of the following functional areas: communication, medical care, maintaining independence, supervision, and transportation. In addition to those individuals specifically recognized as at-risk in the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act (i.e., children, senior citizens, and pregnant women), individuals who may need additional response assistance include those who have disabilities, live in institutionalized settings, are from diverse cultures, have limited English proficiency or are non-English speaking, are transportation disadvantaged, have chronic medical disorders, and have pharmacological dependency.” For more information, click here.
The information on this page is intended to provide information and resources for individuals who may meet the HHS definition of being at-risk. The Rappahannock Area Health District considers the needs of all individuals in the community during emergency planning efforts. Inclusive planning from the beginning increases the community’s resiliency and increases the capacity to meet a wide range of disaster related needs utilizing existing resources and reducing dependence on acute medical resources for maintaining health, safety and independence while preventing discrimination. Personal responsibility before, during and after a disaster applies to people who have functional needs just as it applies to people without functional needs. Although ability varies from person to person, education and outreach efforts, information and tools must be made available, achievable and accessible to everyone.
Children
Older Adults
Individuals with Chronic Health Conditions
Limited English Proficiency or Non-English Speaking
Individuals with Functional Needs
