Disaster Preparedness for Therapy Practices

Is your practice prepared for an emergency or natural disaster? If you’re like most of us, the answer is no.

Studies show that more than 40 percent of small businesses close permanently after a disaster. So while it may seem overwhelming, preparing your practice for the worst case scenario is a necessary step. 

Read below for the five essential steps you should take to make sure your practice is disaster-ready. Then download our free printable resource, The Therapist's Guide to Disaster Preparedness.

5 key steps to make sure your practice is disaster-ready

Step 1: Identify risk

Which of these large-scale disasters is a threat to your practice?

• Pandemics
• Hurricanes
• Winter weather
• Earthquakes
• Tornadoes
• Wildfires
• Floods

Step 2. Create an emergency preparedness plan

Having a well-prepared plan can make a huge difference in minimizing the impact of a crisis.

• Evacuation procedures for both clients and staff
• Emergency contact information for clients, staff, local authorities, and emergency services
• Back-up communication methods, such as text alerts or an emergency phone tree
• Designated meeting places in case of evacuation
• Checking in with vulnerable clients before, during, and after

Step 3. Back up all practice and client data 

You may be surprised to hear that data loss is one of the main culprits behind why many small companies fail following a natural disaster. Make sure all client records are securely backed up in HIPAA compliance and accessible from remote locations. TherapyAppointment backs up our client ‘ data nightly, in multiple locations, in compliance with HIPAA disaster recovery mandates.

Step 4. Review your insurance coverage

Make sure your policy covers all potential risks, including cyber-attacks or telehealth interruptions.

• Business interruption insurance covers lost income due to temporary closure
• Professional liability insurance protects against claims related to interrupted services or perceived negligence
• Property insurance covers damages to your office or equipment due to natural disasters

Step 5. Create an emergency kit

While you may not need these items often, it’s better to be prepared for the unexpected.

• First aid kit
• Flashlights with extra batteries
• Blankets and emergency shelter supplies
• A battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Whistle to signal for help
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery 
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape: To shelter in place
• Wrench or pliers: To turn off utilities
• Local map with your family meeting place identified
• Copies of important documents, such as insurance papers
• Enough water and  non-perishable food for several days

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Ready to prepare your practice?

Download our free printable resource, The Therapist's Guide to Disaster Preparedness