LOS ANGELES, CA – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) declared a public health emergency for California on Friday to address the widespread health impacts caused by the devastating wildfires currently ravaging Los Angeles County.
The declaration, announced by HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, is designed to provide greater flexibility for Medicare and Medicaid providers and suppliers, allowing them to better address urgent health needs in communities affected by the fires. This move follows a major disaster declaration issued by President Biden earlier in the week.
“We will do all we can to assist California officials in responding to the health impacts of the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles County,” Becerra stated. “We are working closely with state and local health authorities, as well as our partners across the federal government, and stand ready to provide public health and medical support.”
Under the declaration, the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), an HHS agency, has mobilized resources to support emergency response efforts. ASPR officials reported that medical equipment, supplies, and personnel are on standby to assist as needed. Volunteers from the Long Beach Medical Reserve Corps have already been deployed to aid local health officials.
“ASPR is closely monitoring the status of hospitals and shelters in wildfire-impacted areas of Los Angeles County,” said ASPR Assistant Secretary Dawn O’Connell. “We are prepared to meet urgent healthcare needs as part of this coordinated federal, state, and local response.”
The declaration also includes several critical measures:
- Activation of the 24/7 Disaster Distress Helpline (1-800-985-5990), providing crisis counseling in multiple languages for those experiencing emotional distress due to the fires.
- Temporary waivers under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to facilitate healthcare operations in disaster-affected areas.
- Deployment of resources from the HHS emPOWER program, which supports at-risk individuals who rely on electricity-dependent medical equipment.
The public health emergency, retroactive to Tuesday, aligns with federal laws that enable these enhanced response measures.
The wildfires in Los Angeles County have scorched over 35,000 acres, destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses, and resulted in at least ten confirmed fatalities. As firefighting crews battle to contain the blazes, officials warn of continuing health risks from hazardous air quality, widespread displacement, and strained healthcare facilities.
Local and federal authorities are urging residents in affected areas to heed evacuation orders and seek available resources.
