Prior authorizations for medically necessary care waived during storm
Philadelphia, PA – Independence Blue Cross (IBC) has taken extra measures to ensure all of its 2.2 million members in southeastern Pennsylvania have access to information and health care services despite disruptions caused by Hurricane Sandy.
Through Wednesday, October 31, 2012, the company has:
- Made Customer Service staff available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 1-800-ASK-BLUE (1-800-275-2583) (even though company offices remain closed today) to assist members and ensure they have uninterrupted access to health care services during the storm and its aftermath.
- Waived all pre-certification, referral, and hospital admission requirements for October 29 and 30 for medically necessary care. For all IBC members seeking medically necessary services in New Jersey hospitals, all pre-certification, referral, and hospital admission requirements will be waived through Friday, November 2.
- Modified its payment policy for out-of-network urgent and emergency care services for members who do not have access to their usual physicians and facilities beginning October 29 through November 2. The company will work closely with hospitals, doctors, and urgent care facilities to ensure members have access to emergency care anywhere they need it.
- Waived the usual pre-certification requirement for members with prescription for new medications, allowing pharmacies to fill four days worth of a prescription.
If IBC members need to seek medical assistance, they are reminded to have their IBC member card and government-issued photo identification on hand. This will ensure that any member can access medical care quickly and without confusion.