Philadelphia, PA — Independence Blue Cross (Independence) is taking extra measures to help its members who might be affected by the wildfires in various parts of Northern and Southern California.
For members impacted by the wildfires, Independence will alter some of its policies now through December 14, 2018. Specific steps include:
- Waiving precertification, referral, and hospital admission requirements for medically necessary care for members.
- Lifting prescription refill restrictions, such as the “refill too soon” limit, and allowing members who receive prescriptions via mail order to get prescriptions at a retail pharmacy.
- Providing replacement of medically necessary medical equipment or supplies for members.
- Offering free confidential counseling service and other resources to employer customers through Magellan Health Services for employees coping with stress and trauma they may have experienced as a result of this emergency situation. Additionally, Magellan is offering a toll-free Information Resource Line, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for all Independence members, to help callers cope and maintain good mental health during the recovery. Members can access this information at 1-800-327-7451.
Independence members with questions about care and medication needs are encouraged to contact the company’s Customer Service team at 1-800-ASK-BLUE (1-800-275-2583) or the phone number on the back of their Independence Blue Cross member I.D. card. Independence employees can ensure that members have uninterrupted access to the health care services they need during this emergency situation and the aftermath.
Independence members can also access their personal health information and find and print replacement ID cards on IBXpress.com, the Independence Blue Cross secure member portal.
Media contact:
Kathleen Conlon
215-241-4576 (o)
267-918-8057 (c)
Kathleen.conlon@ibx.com