With wildfires continuing to impact the Los Angeles area, it is a crucial time to ensure employees and their families have access to resources for health, safety, and preparedness. Blue Shield of California is committed to supporting members during times of crisis, offering a variety of services and tools that can help safeguard health and well-being in emergencies like current fires.
Emergency Preparedness and Staying Informed
Being proactive is crucial in mitigating the impact of disasters. Kaiser Permanente recommends the following steps:
Develop a Family Emergency Plan: Outline evacuation routes, establish communication protocols, and ensure all family members are familiar with the plan. Regular practice can enhance readiness.
Assemble an Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with essentials such as non-perishable food, water, clothing, medications, important documents, and first aid supplies. Regularly update the kit to meet current needs.
Stay Informed: Sign up for local emergency alerts to receive timely information on evacuation orders and safety recommendations.
Access to Care During Wildfires
Kaiser Permanente has implemented measures to ensure members continue to receive necessary care during emergencies:
Prescription Services: For members affected by the wildfires, Kaiser Permanente has temporarily expanded its pharmacy network to include non-Kaiser Permanente pharmacies, facilitating access to essential medications.
Virtual Care Options: Members can utilize telehealth services to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need to travel through affected areas.
Mental Health Support: Recognizing the emotional toll of disasters, Kaiser Permanente offers mental health resources to support members during these challenging times.
Support for Employees
Kaiser Permanente is committed to assisting its employees impacted by the wildfires through various support services:
Employee Emergency Call Line: A dedicated line at (855) 599-9922 is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. for employees seeking assistance.
Short-Term Emergency Support: Employees displaced due to mandatory evacuations may be eligible for lodging reimbursement, monetary grants for immediate needs, and interest-free loans.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): This confidential service provides counseling and support for emotional or psychological concerns. Employees can contact EAP at (510) 987-4600 or after hours at (877) 801-5751.
Community Engagement and Resources
Kaiser Permanente collaborates with organizations like the American Red Cross to enhance community resilience and disaster readiness. Members are encouraged to utilize the Community Resource Directory to find local programs addressing essential needs such as food, housing, and financial assistance.
By leveraging these resources and taking proactive steps, members and employees can more effectively navigate the challenges posed by the wildfires and other emergencies. Kaiser Permanente remains steadfast in its commitment to the health and safety of its community during these times.
If you'd like to learn more, please contact me at:
Heather Raskulincez
Senior Vice President, Employee Benefits
Hraskulinecz@venbrook.com
Tel: (949) 547-0227
