FloridaBlue mobilizes for storm response, offering Teladoc services, extra Rx refills
Cigna has opened a mental health support line to non-members.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida is still coping with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which hit land Sept. 26, and getting ready for the arrival of Hurricane Milton, a powerful, Category 5 storm that could hit around Tampa Thursday morning.
The Jacksonville, Florida-based health insurer has posted a link at the top of its homepage stating, “When there’s a storm, we’re here for you.”
The link leads to a disaster response page listing the counties affected by the Helene and Milton disaster area declarations and a disaster declaration for Hurricane Debbie, a lower-powered storm.
Florida Blue is making extra prescription refills available to members affected by the disaster and ask members to call it if they need help finding in-network providers who are up and running.
“As always, out-of-network providers are covered in case of emergency,” the insurer notes.
The company also encouraging members to consider using Teladoc telehealth services, the bilingual Lucet tele-mental health support service, and two other virtual care programs.
Florida Blue notes that Teladoc services are free for people in the counties affected by the hurricane declarations, even if they aren’t Florida Blue members.
Related: 7 tips to help business clients prepare for hurricane season
The insurer is offering a toll-free number and in-person community center access for people who need help finding food and water.
“We’re ready to help members and everyone in the community,” the company says.
Cigna: Another insurer, Cigna Healthcare, has opened access to free telehealth service support for anxiety, stress and other issues to non-members as well as members.
The company is asking members in affected areas to call it for information about medical and pharmacy benefit emergency-period rules.
“Our hearts go out to all those affected,” the company says.