What should be done for survivors with pre-existing medical conditions following a disaster?

For survivors with pre-existing medical conditions following a disaster, referring them immediately to a physician is crucial. This ensures that their specific medical needs are addressed promptly. Disasters can exacerbate existing health issues or complicate them due to stress and environmental factors. By connecting survivors with healthcare professionals, they can receive appropriate ongoing care, medication management, and specialized treatment that is necessary for their condition.

In contrast, while providing emotional support and advising on mental health practices is important for overall wellbeing, these actions do not directly address the immediate medical needs of individuals with existing health issues. Encouraging rest and recovery is also beneficial but may not be adequate for someone suffering from an exacerbation of a pre-existing condition. Immediate medical attention can make a significant difference in outcomes for these individuals, making the referral to a physician the most appropriate and effective action in this scenario.