'I’ve never seen this’: Seminole County family practice fears it could close its doors due to lack of supplies

SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — A Seminole County family medicine practice is running so low on supplies, it may have to close its doors.

It’s asking patients and anyone else for help.

Altamonte Family Practice said it started running low on masks months ago, and other supplies they need are nearly gone as it competes with those buying supplies at local stores.

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“I would hate to have to close the office down for no toilet paper or, you know, I can’t sanitize the office properly,” said Joanne Gayle, a manager at the practice.

A nasty flu season has made it hard to get supplies such as masks and personal protective equipment, with most products out of stock since February.

“I’ve been with this practice 20 years. I’ve never seen this, ever,” she said.

Gayle said the practice had just two cans of Lysol spray left and no disinfectant wipes until three patients dropped supplies off.

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She hopes residents or other offices will think of the practice when handling extra supplies.

“When I hear on the news the help is for the hospital. Yes, we 100% support the hospital, but we are their first point of contact -- our patients first point of contact. We are trying to prevent unnecessary ER visits,” Gayle said.

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Gayle said if primary care practices close, it will worse a vicious cycle that’s already ongoing due to a lack of supplies.

The practice is calling on any residents or business who can donate extra supplies.

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