Page 5 - Demo

Disaster ResponseHCMS Created the Physician Alert System database to communicate with its physician members during major disasters or public health emergencies.For example, following Hurricane Harvey, the County called on HCMS, as well as Baylor College of Medicine and the McGovern Medical School to assist with providing medical care during the relief efforts. In response, the HCMS Physician Alert System was activated, and more than 1,000 physicians volunteered to assist at shelters throughout the region. Use the QR code to sign up for physician alerts.Public Health EmergenciesDuring times of disaster and pandemics, we offer the resources physicians need to maintain continuity of care and strengthen their practice%u2019s viability.During the Pandemic, HCMS worked diligently to ensure physicians had the most accurate information to fight COVID-19, ensure the viability of their practices and understand the new laws passed and orders issued because of the pandemic.%u00a0For example, as the pandemic progressed in Harris County, City and County leaders began issuing %u201cstay at home orders.%u201d These orders helped slow the spread of the disease. The %u201cstay at home%u201d orders also included a prohibition on elective procedures and surgeries. This caused many physicians to temporarily close their practices.In response, HCMS physicians engaged with U.S. and state representatives to focus on financial assistance to physicians and payment parity for telemedicine.Shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) also limited physicians%u2019 ability to care for patients. HCMS distributed almost 7 million pieces of PPE, worth more than $14 million, to physicians and medical practices at no cost.