Wildfire Alert: Emergency coverage for members in Kern County, California
Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. issued a state of emergency for Kern County, California on June 24, 2016, due to the effects of the Erskine wildfire. As a result, Anthem Blue Cross continues to make sure members affected by this California wildfire can get the medical care they need.
Anthem Blue Cross members who have been impacted and live in Kern County should know:
- Members can get emergency or urgent care services by doctors and hospitals, even if they’re not in network — and claims will be paid as if they’re in network.
- Time limits for prior authorization, pre-certification or referral requirements will be relaxed — there will be no late penalties.
- Members on an Anthem prescription drug plan who have lost or damaged medication can get refills at any pharmacy now.
- Members who use a mail order pharmacy can update address information by calling Member Services.
- Members can get replacement medical equipment (also called Durable Medical Equipment or DME) if theirs was lost or damaged.
- Members and their doctors are being given more time to file claims, if needed.
With the exception of refilling lost or damaged drugs, members must call the Member Services number on their ID card to request any of the above adjustments be made to benefits. Members needing additional support should call the Member Services number on their ID card.
These medical and pharmacy guidelines are effective now through July 17, 2016, unless extended. These guidelines do not apply to Medicare Advantage members, as Medicare Advantage has specific guidelines.
This article applies to:
California
Small Group, Large Group, and Individual (under 65)