Natural Disaster Care

Page last updated on: 11/03/25

Getting Care During a Disaster or Emergency

When a natural disaster or emergency strikes, your health and safety come first. If your area is affected by a declared emergency—such as a hurricane, flood, or wildfire—Medicare may temporarily change its rules to help you get the care and medications you need.

What You Need to Know

If the President, HHS Secretary, or your state governor declares an emergency or disaster in your area, you’re still entitled to care through your Medicare plan. These temporary changes may include:

  • Seeing out-of-network providers at in-network cost.
  • Filling prescriptions at out-of-network pharmacies.
  • Waiving referral or prior authorization requirements.
  • Accessing extended medication supplies (60–90 days).

Medical Care Access

  • Original Medicare: You can visit any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare—even outside your area.
  • Medicare Advantage Plans: Contact Priority Health Customer Care to learn about temporary changes, including:
    • Access to out-of-network providers.
    • Waived referral requirements.
    • In-network cost sharing for out-of-network care.

Prescription Drug Coverage

If you have Medicare Part D and live in an affected area, visit the website or call Customer Care to:

  • Find nearby in-network pharmacies.
  • Replace lost or damaged medications.
  • Use out-of-network pharmacies when needed.
  • Order a 60- or 90-day supply if you expect to be displaced.

If you paid full cost at an out-of-network pharmacy, save your receipts and contact Priority Health to request reimbursement.

Specialized Services

  • Dialysis: Contact your ESRD Network at esrdnetworks.org for help with treatments, supplies, and transportation.
  • Cancer Treatment: Call the National Cancer Institute at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237).
  • Durable Medical Equipment: Medicare may cover repair or replacement of damaged equipment if obtained through approved suppliers.

Replacing Lost Cards

Special Enrollment Periods

If a declared emergency prevented you from making changes to your coverage, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to:

  • Sign up for Part B or premium Part A.
  • Join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage or drug plan.

Call 1-800-MEDICARE for help.

Additional Resources