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Special Needs Program

The Office of the Medical Director (OMD) is committed to enhancing the quality of emergency medical care through expert oversight, evidence-based practices, and collaborative partnerships.

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Special Needs Program

Any Orange County resident or visitor who meets the established eligibility criteria may register for the Persons with Special Needs (PSN) Program. During times of disaster or weather-related evacuation, the program provides a shelter environment to individuals who have a health/medical condition that requires medical assistance by their caregiver/home health in a shelter environment. Registration can be obtained by calling or visiting one of the following :

www.ocfl.net/psn, where the registration form can be completed online. Alternatively, a Printable Blank Form can be downloaded from the bottom of the page.
Contacting The Orange County Citizens Line by dialing 311 or 407-836-3111
Asking your Home Health Agency to register you
Asking your Hospice Agency to register you
Asking your Medical Equipment Supplier to register you
Asking your Senior Social Service Agency to register you

Information collected during the registration process is confidential by law and will only be given to specific emergency personnel.

People with Special Needs Registration Form
- English Version
- Spanish Version
People with Special Needs Program FAQs
- English Version
- Spanish Version
Preparing Makes Sense for People with Disabilities and Special Needs
- English Version
- Spanish Version
Emergency Preparedness for Older Americans
- English Version
- Spanish Version
FEMA

FAQs

How do I register for evacuation help if I have special needs?

Call the Orange County Citizens Line by dialing 311 or 407-836-3111. A live specialist will assist you in registering by phone or you can request a registration form. Be sure to keep your information current.

Where will I go if I must evacuate my home?

Orange County has designated Special Needs Shelter sites throughout the County. Decisions on which of these shelter sites are opened are determined by County officials.

What should I take if I decide to go to a shelter?

Orange County has designated Special Needs Shelter sites throughout the County. Decisions on which of these shelter sites are opened are determined by County officials.

Your caregiver(s), if you have one
Identification and Medical Information cards
Medications (including non-prescription medicines)
Medical equipment/supplies (portable oxygen, concentrator, diabetes testing kit, nebulizer, walker, hearing aids, eyeglasses, etc.)
Blanket and pillow
Change of clothing and personal hygiene items
Special dietary foods/snacks, if needed
Mobile phone charger, if needed
A book, magazine or something to occupy your time while you wait for the storm to pass

Where will I go if I must evacuate my home?

Orange County has designated Special Needs Shelter sites throughout the County. Decisions on which of these shelter sites are opened are determined by County officials.

Can I bring my pet?

Service animals and ordinary domestic household pets are welcome at Special Needs Shelters. No reptiles will be allowed in shelters.

Can I shelter at a hospital?

Hospitals do not provide shelter; instead you should go to a designated Red Cross or Special Needs Shelter.

Emergency Medical Services

Contact Us

Emergency Medical Services Office
4654 35th Street
Orlando, Florida 32811

Phone: (407) 836-9319
Fax: (407) 836-2838