ASPR Activates EPAP for Uninsured Residents in Hurricane Impacted Areas

The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for Georgia starting October 10, 2024 to aid uninsured residents in affected zip codes by replacing prescription medicines and certain medical equipment lost or damaged due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. Following Hurricane Helene, President Biden issued a major disaster declaration for Georgia and HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra issued a public health emergency declaration to aid the state in responding to Hurricane Helene. EPAP activation is part of the federal support available after disasters. Uninsured Georgia residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470 (TTY 1-800-876-1089), or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy.

Currently, uninsured residents of North Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia may utilize the federally managed program and request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications – at any EPAP-participating pharmacy – which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. The program also pays for replacements of some types of durable medical equipment and supplies such as canes; crutches; walkers; wheelchairs; blood sugar meters; and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Vaccinations provided by retail pharmacies also may be covered under EPAP.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services provides a compiled toolkit of safety resources from FEMA including safety and mental health resources for those affected by the recent hurricanes including Helene and Milton. Learn more about EPAP through the program webpage, which includes a video with American Sign Language interpretation to explain eligibility and how the program works. 

Click here to download the Hurricane Milton Messaging Resource Toolkit in English.

Click here to download the Hurricane Milton Messaging Resource Toolkit in Español.