Here’s how five big names are supporting hurricane victims:
1. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana announced Aug. 30 that members have access to early prescription refills, $0 medical telehealth visits and one behavioral health telehealth visit through Sept. 6. The insurer also provided flexibility on medical device replacement and prior authorization requirements.
2. Cigna is lifting requirements for pharmaceutical and health benefits for those affected by Hurricane Ida. Members are encouraged to call for full details.
3. CMS is providing flexibilities after HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra declared a public health emergency Aug. 30. In addition to COVID-19 waivers, CMS is issuing emergency dialysis care support, waiving some medical equipment replacement requirements and more.
4. The Humana Foundation announced Sept. 3 that it is donating $500,000 to hurricane relief efforts. Initially, $300,000 will be split equally between United Way of Southeast LA, Imagine Water Works and Bayou Community Foundation, with the remaining $200,000 to be donated as conditions change. Humana is also waiving prior authorization requirements, covering out-of-network care at in-network rates and delivering meals to victims as part of its initiatives.
5. The United Health Foundation is donating $1 million to Hurricane Ida relief efforts, the nonprofit announced Sept. 2. The funds are split between four local nonprofits. UnitedHealth is also supporting members who suffered from the natural disaster by offering early prescription refills, telehealth access and a free emotional support line.
