Disaster or Public Health Emergencies

How Verda Supports Medicare Advantage Members during Disasters

When the president, governor or secretary of Health and Human Services declares a disaster or a public health emergency, we take actions to ensure our Medicare Advantage members in the affected areas can get the medical care they need

The actions we take include:

Covering Medicare parts A and B services and supplemental Part C plan benefits at non – network hospitals and other medical facilities
Waiving all requirements for primary care physician (PCP) referrals
Providing enrollees with the same cost – sharing they would get at an in – network facility
Removing prescription drug limitations such as “Refill too soon” rejection notices that prevent replacing lost medications

All of those changes become effective immediately.

The actions end when:

The president, governor or secretary of Health and Human Services declares the public health emergency or disaster has ended; or,
30 days have passed since the disaster or emergency was declared, and no end date was identified.

If Verda is also affected by the disaster and cannot resume operations by the end of the disaster or public health emergency, we will notify the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and will update the Verda website, when and if we are able, to provide information about Verda’s operational capabilities.

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

Create a Communications Plan

Establish a list of emergency contacts, including family, friends, and medical providers. Include meeting locations a fter a disaster and essential medical information.

Connect with Local Information

Connect to text message alert systems provided by state and local governments for critical information, evacuation routes, and shelter locations. ( We can add GOV links rega rding disaster prepardiness here?)Disaster Planning Tips for Older Adults and their Families (cdc.gov), etc.

Medicare rules in a disaster or emergency area | Medicare

Create Emergency/Provision Kits

Assemble two emergency kits — one for evacuation and another for sheltering in place. Include items like first – aid supplies, food, water, important documents, batteries, portable phone chargers, flashlight s, and more.

DISASTER OR PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCIES

For Pet Owners

Prepare for your pets and service animals by familiarizing yourself with animal shelter sites, locating pet – friendly accommodations, and keeping identification, vaccination records, and specialized food readily available.