LOS ANGELES (December 6, 2017) — Blue Shield of California is closely monitoring the severe conditions caused by wildfires in Southern California and has donated $50,000 to United Way of Ventura County to support its fire relief efforts.
United Way of Ventura County, the American Red Cross of Ventura County and the Ventura County Sheriff's Office of Emergency Services are collaborating to help the community recover.
“United Way of Ventura County thanks Blue Shield for supporting our fire relief efforts,” said Eric Harrison, President & CEO of United Way of Ventura County. “These funds will help residents of the more than 150 homes and several apartment buildings that have been destroyed and the estimated 600 people who are being temporarily housed at the fairgrounds and other shelter sites.”
To get up-to-date fire information, please call 2-1-1 or text “thomasfire” to 898-211.
Blue Shield of California has also implemented the following services to help ensure that its members receive the care they need during this time:
- Allowing for the immediate refill of prescriptions, even if they are not yet due to be refilled.
- Conducting outreach to affected members who currently participate in a care management program.
- Approving exceptions on claims for lost or broken eyewear. To receive help, impacted individuals should call Blue Shield’s vision plan administrator, MESVision, at 1-877-601-9083.
- Magellan Health, Blue Shield’s contracted managed care plan for behavioral health, is providing free access to resources, materials and counseling services through its dedicated hotline: 1-800-327-7451.
- Teladoc is offering access to general medical care at no charge. To receive care, affected individuals should call 1-855-225-5032 or visit teladoc.com/cafires for more information.
Blue Shield of California members who need immediate assistance can contact customer service at 1-800-393-6130.
Members who may have lost or misplaced their identification card can print a new card on our website at blueshieldca.com. Alternatively, members can use the Blue Shield of California mobile app to access their ID card on their mobile device.
We will continue to monitor activity and may make further adjustments to continue to best serve our members.
Contact: Clinton McGue, 415-229-5359, media@blueshieldca.com
About Blue Shield of California
Blue Shield of California, an independent member of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, is a nonprofit health plan with 4 million members, 6,800 employees and more than $17 billion in annual revenue. Founded in 1939 and headquartered in San Francisco, Blue Shield of California and its affiliates provide health, dental, vision, Medicaid and Medicare health care service plans in California. The company’s mission is to ensure all Californians have access to high-quality care at an affordable price. Blue Shield has contributed more than $450 million to Blue Shield of California Foundation since 2002. Contact your local agent or broker about Blue Shield of California products and services, or visit www.blueshieldca.com.
About United Way of Ventura County
In the aftermath of a disaster, United Way's Ventura County Volunteer Center will serve as an online, call, and walk-in center for spontaneous volunteers. The Volunteer Center will register volunteers and coordinate with the Sheriff's Office of Emergency Services to place them where they can do the most good for the community. 2-1-1 Ventura County will also be available 24/7 to register volunteers, answer questions, and connect those in need with the resources to help them.
www.vcunitedway.org