Hurricane Idalia hits Georgia, public health emergency declared

ATLANTA, Georgia: This week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) declared a public health emergency in Georgia after it was hit by Hurricane Idalia.

Idalia hit Florida's Gulf Coast in late August before turning to southeastern Georgia.

HHS said that after the declaration, healthcare providers and suppliers will have greater flexibility in meeting the emergency needs of people covered by the Medicare and Medicaid plans.

Health Secretary Xavier Becerra said, "We are working closely with state and local health authorities, as well as our partners across the federal government, and stand ready to provide additional public health and medical support."

The declaration also waives certain requirements, such as physicians and other healthcare professionals needing licenses in the state where they provide services.