Policy & Research · Texas behavioral health news
When Natural Disasters Strike, Another Crisis Hits Those Recovering From Opioid Addiction
KFF Health News – Mental Health · By Andrew Jones · April 30, 2026
In plain language
Natural disasters like hurricanes and fires can make it very difficult for people in recovery to get life-saving addiction medications. When local clinics and pharmacies close due to power outages or damage, patients may run out of prescriptions and face a high risk of relapse. Doctors are now asking the federal government to create emergency plans that make it easier for people to get these medicines during disasters. This includes letting patients take home extra supplies and allowing pharmacies to fill prescriptions more easily across state lines.
AI-generated summary of the source article. Not medical advice.
Key takeaways
- Natural disasters often disrupt access to essential medications like buprenorphine and methadone used for opioid recovery.
- A study of Superstorm Sandy found that 70% of area patients could not access their recovery medications.
- Current federal regulations and pharmacy limits can prevent patients from getting emergency refills during a crisis.
- Experts suggest creating a patient registry to help those displaced by disasters get treatment in other states.
- Medical professionals recommend stocking rescue vehicles with recovery medications and adding backup generators to addiction clinics.
Using Hurricane Helene as a teachable moment, a group of doctors outlined concrete steps that lawmakers can take to reverse a crisis in getting substance use medications during natural disasters.
Need to talk to someone in Texas? Browse Texas-licensed telehealth therapists. In crisis, call or text 988.