It’s Hurricane Season! Here’s how to access your health care and early refills

We’ve been serving North Carolina for over 85 years, that’s long enough to know that hurricane season is not something to take lightly. Over the past few years, we have been hit by numerous storms – Hurricane Matthew in 2016, Hurricane Maria in 2017 and Hurricane Florence and Tropical Storm Michael in 2018 – and have seen first-hand the damage these storms can have on the state we serve. We know how serious these storms can be and want you to be prepared in case one comes our way this year.

EARLY PRESCRIPTION REFILLS DURING EMERGENCIES

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) takes steps to ensure customers have access to health care and the medications they need when a storm or other emergency occurs.

In the event of a declared state of emergency, we allow early prescription refills to ensure impacted members have enough medicine to get through the storm. Early prescription refills will be available until the Governor declares we are no longer in a state of emergency.

Customers who have questions about prescription refills or other services should call the customer service number on the back of their member card. In addition, pharmacies who have questions should call the Blue Cross NC pharmacy desk.

HEALTH QUESTIONS?

Our Health Line Blue (1-877-477-2424) nurses can help 24/7. Let our nurses help you decide where to get care when you need it. 
• Answer questions until you can see your doctor
• Answer questions about your medications
• Give you information to make better health care decisions

Remember, if you are facing an issue that threatens your life or health, call 911.

WAYS TO PREPARE AT HOME

Aside from checking in with your health insurance, make sure you compile the needed materials to keep you and your loved ones safe. The American Red Cross recommends you should put together a survival kit that includes, at a minimum, the following:

• Water: one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
• Food: non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
• A multi-purpose tool
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical info, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Cell phone with chargers
• Family and emergency contact information
• Extra cash
• Emergency blanket
• Map of the area

For additional information on how to prepare for a hurricane visit the American Red Cross Hurricane Safety page and always remember to visit the closest hospital in the event of a medical emergency.

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