CVS Health is taking proactive measures to ensure the health and safety of its customers, patients, members, and colleagues as Hurricane Debby makes landfall in Florida and moves through Georgia and the Carolinas this week. The company is committed to providing communities with access to the products and services they need during this challenging time.
To support its customers, CVS Pharmacy is reaching out through various channels such as text messages, emails, and phone calls to remind patients to refill and pick up their prescriptions. Additionally, stores are receiving extra supplies of emergency items like water, batteries, and first aid products.
CVS Caremark, the company’s pharmacy benefit manager, is allowing one-time emergency refills of a 10-day supply of medication for plan members in impacted areas. This ensures that patients have the necessary medication to manage their health during the storm.
For CVS Specialty patients who require specialty medications and are within the emergency area, the company is proactively contacting them to discuss alternate delivery arrangements if needed. This ensures that these patients can continue to receive their medications without interruption.
Aetna, a subsidiary of CVS Health, has expanded its clinical response teams’ engagement with Medicare and Commercial members in potentially affected areas. This ensures that members have access to emergency services and receive the necessary support to stay safe.
Aetna is also offering liberalized services through its Resources For Living (RFL) program, providing individuals and organizations with access to care, regardless of whether it is part of their existing benefits. These services include in-the-moment mental health phone support, a dedicated crisis support website, and community resource information. Individuals and organizations can reach out to Aetna at 1-833-327-AETNA for assistance.
CVS Health is actively checking on the safety of its colleagues who may be at risk from the storm and offering crisis support. The company’s employee assistance program provides information about community resources and emotional support services.
CVS Pharmacy stores are complying with all local evacuation orders, ensuring the safety of both customers and employees. In the event of mandatory closures, impacted stores will reopen as soon as it is safe to do so. If a store remains closed for more than one day, the pharmacy’s phone lines will be redirected to a nearby open CVS Pharmacy to assist patients in accessing their prescriptions. Patients with scheduled vaccinations will be notified of any changes to their appointments via email or text message.
To ensure prescription needs are met for those potentially impacted by Hurricane Debby, CVS Health recommends following local evacuation orders and refilling medications at the nearest pharmacy once in a safe location. It is advised to carry medications in a waterproof bag, even if the bottle is empty, as the prescription label can help pharmacy staff with refill requests. Extreme weather conditions can degrade the effectiveness of medicine, so it is important to protect it from heat, humidity, and sunlight. Keeping a written record of current prescriptions, dosages, and doctor’s contact information is also recommended.
CVS Health remains dedicated to supporting its local communities and is actively collaborating with disaster relief organizations to assist communities in responding to and recovering from the storm. As the leading health solutions company, CVS Health strives to improve the health of communities across America through its local presence, digital channels, and dedicated colleagues. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and trusted partnerships, CVS Health helps individuals navigate the healthcare system and manage their personal health care with heart and compassion.