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News — LOS ANGELES (Jan. 13, 2025) -- Wildfires across Los Angeles County have forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee their homes, leaving many without critical medications.

But patients can access vital medications using a variety of resources, according to Cedars-Sinai pharmacists.

“There are options for those in need of medications during all types of natural disasters,” said , vice president and chief pharmacy officer at Cedars-Sinai.

Shane, alongside , executive director of Pharmacy and Oncology Services; Douglas Malcolm, PharmD, associate director of Ambulatory Pharmacy; and Rachel Vaystub, PharmD, manager of Pharmacy Services, offered advice for navigating medication access during a disaster.  

How can patients refill medications without access to their prescriptions or their regular pharmacy?

Patients have a few options. If they use a chain pharmacy, they can go to any other location, which will be able to access their medication records and provide refills. Or they can visit a local pharmacy, explain their situation, and the pharmacy might be able to determine the patient’s medications by checking with the patient’s insurance company.

Patients can call their insurance provider to get their medication list and ask for a recommended pharmacy. Or they can contact their medical provider and get their prescriptions sent to another pharmacy. Online tools like  track which pharmacies have remained open during emergencies.

Will pharmacies refill prescriptions early?

Pharmacies can—in good faith—provide a reasonable supply of medications without a prescription during a federal, state or local emergency. Under their professional judgment, pharmacists can refill prescriptions if failing to do so could interrupt ongoing care or create a significant, adverse impact on a patient’s wellbeing. The pharmacist will need to contact the patient’s physician as soon as possible to explain what was provided.

Do patients need to find pharmacies covered by their insurance provider?

Patients can go to any pharmacy in an emergency, especially in a declared state of emergency. Out-of-network pharmacies might cost more up front, but patients might be able to submit a claim to their insurer for reimbursement. Patients should call their insurance company to determine which pharmacy they recommend and whether a reimbursement will be provided.

What should patients do if they are uninsured?

Free clinics might be able to help with critical medications and certain local pharmacies might be willing to waive payment during emergencies. The  provides disaster relief services, including assistance with medical needs, as do others like . Dial 211 to connect with local organizations that provide emergency medication support.

Can patients get controlled substances without a prescription in an emergency?

Controlled substances would be very difficult to access without any proof of prescription. Having a medication list or information from insurance companies helps pharmacies when these medications are needed during emergencies/disasters. Strict regulations require additional steps and may result in delays.

What else should patients know?

For self-administered injectables, appropriate storage, and access to supplies like needles and syringes are major considerations. Many of these medications require refrigeration, but some can remain at room temperature. It is best to consult a pharmacist about how long the medication will last outside a fridge. Local pharmacies can also provide supplies in emergency situations. 

To arrange an interview, contact:
Marni Usheroff | 323-317-0556 | [email protected]

For the Cedars-Sinai Â鶹´«Ã½room team's complete coverage of the Los Angeles County wildfires, please .