For People Living with Chronic Medical Conditions
Emergencies can happen with little warning—whether it’s a fire, natural disaster, medical emergency, or evacuation notice. If you have a chronic medical condition, having a “go bag” packed and ready helps make it easier to leave quickly if you need to, while still being able to manage your health.
What to Include in Your Go Bag
Medical Essentials
- A list of your medical conditions and allergies
- A current medication list (include doses and schedule. Consider also listing the reason you take each medication)
- At least a 3-day supply of all of your prescription medications and OTC medications/supplements/vitamins that you take regularly
- Medical supplies (inhalers, insulin pens, syringes, glucometer, mobility aids, oxygen tubing, etc.)
- Epi-Pen, if applicable
- Extra batteries or chargers for any medical devices (CPAP, glucometer, etc.)
- Contact info for your doctor(s) and pharmacy
Important Documents
- A copy of your health insurance card, photo ID, and advance directive, if you have one
- Emergency contact list (family, friends, caregivers, etc.)
- A copy of your care plan (if applicable)
- You may want to keep your passport nearby, in case you need to bring that with you
Personal Items To Consider
- Change of clothes and undergarments
- Hand sanitizer
- Flashlight and batteries
- Cell phone charger or battery bank
- Basic toiletries (toothbrush, soap, etc.)
- Non-perishable snacks and water
Special Considerations
Pack for your unique needs, including:
- Hearing aids, glasses, dentures
- Mobility devices or support braces
- Cooling packs for heat-sensitive medications
- Items for children, caregivers, or pets if needed
You may not have duplicates of some of these items that you can keep packed (like your hearing aids, CPAP machine, glasses, or dentures). They are included in this resource so that they remain top of mind and you might be more likely to remember to bring them in an emergency (if they aren’t already being worn at the time).
Tips
- Store everything in a backpack or small suitcase near the door you would leave through. Avoid storing the go bag in the car as some of the contents may be impacted by extreme heat/cold.
- Check and update your bag every 3–6 months. Replace any expired medications, snacks, or supplies.
- If you use refrigerated medications, consider keeping a small cooler bag/lunchbox with ice packs nearby so you can quickly pack up those medications.
- Know where you would go in an emergency — a family member’s house, a shelter, or a hospital — and let someone close to you know your plan.
Remember:
- Being prepared doesn’t mean you’re expecting the worst—it means you’re ready to try to stay safe and healthy no matter what happens.
- If you need help putting together a go bag or organizing your medical information, talk to your healthcare provider or care coordinator.
This document was created with the assistance of AI. Any AI-generated content was reviewed by a Nurse Practitioner.