Hurricane Harvey has ravaged through the coast of Texas and left behind billions of dollars in damages. In times of tragedy and despair, there are companies out there that are working to make a difference. United Healthcare announced a donation of $1 million to support relief efforts for the Texas communities affected by Hurricane Harvey.

“Our hearts go out to the millions of people affected by this devastating storm, and we are committed to supporting the relief and recovery effort through our contribution,” said Dave Wichmann, president of UnitedHealth Group. “We are taking action to ensure the people we serve continue to have access to the care they need, and are working to ensure the safety and well-being of employees in the region.”

Check out the many other ways United Healthcare is contributing to relief efforts below:

“UnitedHealthcare has taken the following actions as part of its commitment to helping members, customers and care providers in the counties impacted by Hurricane Harvey. The following measures apply to individuals insured through UnitedHealthcare and are effective through October 31, and will be reviewed again at that time if necessary.”

Access to Care: Members who may have been displaced from their homes or whose network or medical facility is inaccessible can access care anywhere, as needed and it will be covered at their in-network benefit level.

UnitedHealthcare is also waiving all preauthorization for existing medical and pharmacy treatment, notification requirements, as well as extending claim filing and premium payment deadlines.

Prescription Medications and Medical Equipment: Members who are affected can also fill existing prescriptions early (one time, 90-day refill) and replace durable medical equipment, if necessary. For mail-order delivery service to affected areas or any other questions related to their prescriptions, people are encouraged to call the pharmacy number on the back of their ID card, or speak directly to a pharmacist about their situation in order to get an early refill, if necessary. This is available until November 30.
For Additional Assistance: Members can call the Customer Care number on the back of their medical ID card, if they need additional assistance. If they have misplaced their medical ID card, they can call 800-643-4845, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. (in the local time zone), seven days a week. DSNP members can call 800-256-6533.

United Healthcare supports the broader community:

Free Help Line: Optum is offering a free emotional-support helpline to affected individuals. The toll-free number – 866-342-6892 – will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for as long as necessary. The service is free of charge and open to anyone. Callers may also receive referrals to community resources. Along with the toll-free help line, emotional-support resources and information are available online at www.liveandworkwell.com.
Relief Effort: In addition, United Healthcare is pledging a 2:1 match for employee contributions towards Hurricane Harvey relief efforts.

What can you do to help as an agent for UHC?

During critical times, agents are often the main point of contact for members. As a reminder, these are things you can do on behalf of a member:

Act on their behalf by contacting Customer Services
Remind members of existing benefits and services, such as prescription drugs by mail program and emergency room services that are covered regardless of network.

Agents, please let your clients know of all the ways United Healthcare can benefit them during this time of tragedy. You could save a life!