Blue Shield of California has set out what it will cover for members caught in fires and mandatory evacuations, a practical list for anyone who has had to leave home with a few hours’ notice. The health plan said evacuation orders were in place in several California counties as of October 21.
Prescriptions, care and equipment
During a mandatory evacuation, the plan allows immediate refills for members with prescription drug benefits, even when a refill is not yet due. Members can contact their pharmacy or call the number on the back of their ID card. Promise Health Plan members can also call Medi-Cal Rx at (800) 977-2273.
Virtual care is included with most plans. Teladoc Health connects members with a doctor by phone or video around the clock at 800-TELADOC (800-835-2362), and NurseHelp 24/7 offers a registered nurse at (877) 304-0504. CalPERS members on Pers Gold and Platinum PPO plans are directed to Included Health at (855) 633-4436. Promise members have a nurse advice line at (800) 609-4166.
Members with mental health benefits can reach counselling through the plan’s behavioral health network, and the number to call depends on the plan. The commercial line is 1-877-263-9952, available 24 hours a day. For a mental health crisis, Promise members are pointed to 988.
Members in affected areas can replace contacts or glasses, and may see out-of-network vision providers at in-network cost. Members who are displaced and use durable medical equipment can replace it by contacting their supplier. Those who have left their area and cannot find an in-network provider can get care out of network at in-network cost. Anyone in a care or disease management program should call their case manager or the number on their ID card so treatment is not interrupted.
Cards and outside help
Members who lost their ID card can view it online after logging in, or through the Blue Shield app. For other expenses tied to damage, the company points members to the California Office of Emergency Services, FEMA and DisasterAssistance.gov. Blue Shield also said members can check blueshieldca.com for updates on plan services.
