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Health Care Resources for Members Affected By Hurricane Francine

Date: 09/12/24

In the wake of flooding and damage in Louisiana from Hurricane Francine, Louisiana Healthcare Connections is providing personalized support to affected members.

To ensure that members in the affected areas have uninterrupted access to medications and needed health care, Louisiana Healthcare Connections is providing the following resources and support:

  • Replacement Medications, Medical Equipment and Member ID Cards

Members in the affected area who need help replacing medications, medical equipment, and/or Member ID cards lost in the flood or due to evacuation can call Member Services at 1-866-595-8133 (TTY: 711), Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. for expedited assistance.

  • Help Locating Care

Members who have evacuated are reminded that referrals are not required to visit any in-network provider. This includes primary care providers, urgent care and specialists. Members also have full coverage for telehealth visits with their physicians. 

Members who need help locating a provider near them can call Member Services at 1-866-595-8133 or use our online Find a Provider tool.

  • Emergency Out-of-Network Care Access

In a medical emergency, members can always receive care at any emergency care provider (in or out of network).

  • 24/7 Free Nurse Advice

For answers to health and prescription questions or help locating a provider after hours, members can call 1-866-595-8133 and say, “Nurse,” to be connected to a registered nurse (RN) who will assist them.

  • 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Hotline

Members who need emotional or mental health support are encouraged to call our free crisis hotline at 1-844-677-7553 (TTY: 711) to speak to a licensed mental health counselor.

If you need assistance as a result of the recent storm, we want you to know we are here for you.

 

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) has shared these additional safety tips and resources:


Generator Safety

  • Portable generators should never be used indoors. This includes in a garage, carport, basement, crawl space or other enclosed or partially enclosed area, even those with ventilation.
  • Gas-powered generators produce an exhaust of carbon monoxide (CO) which is odorless and colorless. CO inhalation can rapidly lead to full incapacitation or death. Opening windows or doors or using fans will not prevent the build-up of CO. If you start to feel sick, dizzy or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air IMMEDIATELY. Be sure to place the generator away from doors, windows and vents that could allow CO to come indoors.
  • Keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions. Protect the generator from moisture by operating it on a dry surface under an open canopy-like structure, such as a tarp held up on poles.
  • Learn more about safe generator use. 

Power outages

  • When the power is out, throw away any medication that should be refrigerated, unless the drug’s label says otherwise. If your life depends on the refrigerated drugs, use them only until a new supply is available. Replace all refrigerated drugs as soon as possible.
  • Residents should assume that any downed utility line is energized. Stay away and keep children and pets away from downed lines. Call the electric company to report them. Learn more on how to protect yourself from electrical hazards after a disaster.
  • Extreme heat can be especially dangerous for those with chronic medical conditions like heart disease, mental illness, poor blood circulation and obesity. Check on friends and loved ones, and follow these tips on how to prevent heat-related illness after a power outage.

Food and water safety

Floodwaters and cleanup

  • Avoid floodwaters, both driving and walking through them, especially on highways and roads. They could be mixed with sewage or other dangerous contaminants. Or it could be covering other dangers, such as exposed electrical wires or sharp objects. For your health and safety, just stay out of the water. Don’t allow children to play in or near floodwaters. 
  • Take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones during cleanup after a hurricane.