SCDPH opens Medical Equipment Power Shelter Triage Line
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South Carolina Department of Public Health
Photo: South Carolina Department of Public Health
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– South Carolina Department of Public Health (SCDPH) has opened its Triage Line for residents, says officials.
DPH says the line is open for residents to call to determine their eligibility for Medical Equipment Power Shelters (MEPS) during an emergency in light of the winter storm expected to impact the state this weekend.
A Medical Equipment Power Shelter is an emergency shelter with limited support for people who require backup power for medical reasons.
Officials say these are individuals who live at home and have a health condition that requires backup power for medical devices, refrigeration of medication, or specialized/hospital beds.
The number is 1-833-351-9990 and will be open for calls 24 hours a day beginning at noon today, Jan. 23, until further notice.
Individuals in these shelters should bring a responsible adult companion with them as DPH does not provide health care services in these shelters.
South Carolina has two types of shelters during an emergency: Medical Equipment Power Shelters and General Population Shelters.
To find an open general population shelter near you, check the American Red Cross Shelter Locator.
Eligible individuals will be expected to bring items needed for daily living to a designated MEPS.
Health officials also say Medical Equipment Power Shelters do not have a way to shelter non-service animals or pets so sheltering arrangements for pets, emotional support or therapy animals should be made before the emergency.
