Are You Prepared?
Take Measures to Protect Your Family's Health in the Event of a Natural Disaster
Download the Personal Health Information Record:
- DISASTER RECOVERY:
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If you or your loved ones are seriously injured or become ill as the result of a disaster, you will need to take steps to get the medical coverage you need. Follow these tips to managing your health benefits following a natural disaster:
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Call your health insurance provider's customer service department as soon as possible to find out exactly what to do and what information is required to make a claim.
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If you are injured, notify your employer immediately. You may need to apply for unemployment insurance claims.
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Ask your doctor to keep records about your progress. Your insurance company may need records of your continued progress toward recovery if you end up in rehabilitation.
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If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), save any medical or prescription receipts to submit for reimbursements.
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Know your rights — if you are not receiving payment for treatment you need, ask your doctor to write a letter or call the insurance company to explain why you need the care. A hospital social worker may be able to help you, or call your State Health Insurance Program (SHIP). To find a SHIP in your state, call the Eldercare Locator, a free public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging, at 1-800-677-1116.
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Over the past few years we have seen many natural disasters strike. From wildfires and earthquakes in California to tornados across the Mississippi River Valley to hurricanes and flooding in the southeast U.S., they have destroyed homes, injured many and even killed some. This year is proving to be no different.
Natural disasters can strike quickly and without warning. Advance preparation is important, and it is critical to consider health information when planning ahead or dealing with the aftermath of a natural disaster. More than likely, health benefits are not top of mind — if you are even taking time to plan at all.
But if you had to flee your home or were injured during a natural disaster, would you have the health care coverage you need and would you know how to access it? And would you have the health information you need to help doctors make the right treatment decisions?
Take a few minutes now to gather your health history and coverage information in one place and think about how to take advantage of your health benefits. These simple steps can protect your family's well-being and finances in case of a natural disaster. We've provided you with a Personal Health Information Record (DOC) you can download in advance and tips on dealing with your health information and health benefits if you are displaced or affected by a natural disaster.
PREPARING IN ADVANCE
Think about steps you can take now to plan for the possibility of displacement, an injury or a life-threatening emergency as a result of a natural disaster.
Make a Healthy Investment
If you or your family members do not have health insurance, select and
purchase a benefits plan immediately. You can go to www.eHealthInsurance.com to get a quote for an individual or family insurance plan.
Even if you can't afford a comprehensive plan, buy insurance that will cover a catastrophic injury or illness. There are resources like COBRA and www.healthinsuranceinfo.net to help you choose a plan. If you have a medical condition that makes you ineligible for an individual plan, check into your state's plan for uninsurable individuals. The cost can be high and the coverage limited, but paying for a serious injury without a health care plan will cost even more. Call your state's insurance commission or check online to learn more.
Know What's Covered
If you or a family member becomes sick or injured during a disaster,
health insurance can quickly become your most important asset when the
bills add up. Learn about your plan's coverage for catastrophic
or long-term injuries, including coverage for rehabilitation and the lifetime maximum
the policy will pay. If the lifetime maximum may not meet your
needs, find out if you can switch to another plan that has better
coverage or make a change during the next Open Enrollment
season. According to a study by America's Health Insurance Plans
(AHIP) of consumers looking for individual major medical insurance,
most picked plans with an average lifetime maximum of nearly $4 million. If you have individual health
insurance, check with your provider to review your policy and better
understand your potential needs.
Find out from your health insurance provider about the options you'll have if you are displaced and need medical care outside of your area. Call your plan's customer service department to find out what to expect.
Arm Yourself with Information
Create a record of your family's
health information by filling out an easy-to-use Personal Health Information Record (DOC).
List medical providers, medications you use regularly (with dosage
information) and any allergies. Update this worksheet at least
once a year. Include copies of health insurance cards, health
insurance policies and immunization records (include your children's
records as well — you will need these if you need to place your
children in a new school or day care, even temporarily). If
possible, keep a 14-day supply of necessary medications on hand and
extra copies of prescriptions for medicines and glasses from your
doctor. It is important to have easy access to these items in
case you are forced to leave your home.
Prepare for the Worst Scenario
Prepare an evacuation box that is fireproof and lockable. You can
purchase fireproof boxes at many retail locations that are
briefcase-sized and can be quickly grabbed in an emergency. Keep
all your important financial documents in this box, including legal
documents, information on bank accounts and insurance policies.
Get vaccinated now. Talk to your doctor at your next appointment about updating your vaccinations as a safeguard. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), many adults incorrectly assume that vaccines you received as a child will protect you for the rest of your life. However, newer vaccines may now be available, immunity can begin to fade over time and as you age, you become more susceptible to serious disease caused by common infections. The CDC lists an Adult Immunization Schedule on their website.
Don't Forget Your Pet!
If
you have to evacuate, the most important thing you can do to protect
your pets is to take them with you. Here's how you can be
prepared for the day when you and your pets may have to leave your home.
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Create a portable pet disaster supply kit. Keep items in an accessible place and store them in sturdy containers that can be carried easily. Your pet disaster supply kit should include:
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Medications and medical records (stored in a waterproof container) and a first aid kit
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Leashes, harnesses and carriers to transport pets safely and ensure that your animals can't escape
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Current photos of your pet in case they get lost (it's a good idea to set aside photos of the rest of your family members as well)
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Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to foster or board your pet
