WELLESLEY, MA -- To assist communities in the Merrimack Valley affected by the devasting gas explosions on September 13, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care is establishing special procedures for emergency premium assistance for individuals directly enrolled as well as small businesses that have been adversely affected in the communities of Lawrence, Andover and North Andover.
“As our members in the Merrimack Valley grapple with such immense challenges, it is critically important that they have access to health care without interruption,” said Michael Carson, President & CEO of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care. “Our thoughts and continued support are with those who have been impacted by this tragic incident.”
On a case-by-case basis, Harvard Pilgrim will determine a way to ensure that individuals and groups affected by the emergency will be able to maintain health insurance coverage without interruption during the recovery period. Any individual with a residential address or any small business with a primary business address in the three affected communities, who is a member or customer of Harvard Pilgrim and can attest to being adversely affected by the explosions, is eligible for special consideration.
People enrolled directly with Harvard Pilgrim and not through an employer should contact Harvard Pilgrim’s member services to seek assistance in ensuring coverage during the recovery period at (877) 907-4742 (TTY: 711), Medicare Advantage members should call (888) 609-0692 (TTY: 711) and Medicare Supplement Plan members should call (877) 907-4742. Small businesses should contact their account executive.
In addition to the emergency support to ensure coverage, the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Foundation is donating $10,000 to the Greater Lawrence Disaster Relief Fund at the Essex County Community Fund. This fund has been set up to allow all three communities a leadership role to respond to the complex needs that will last for the weeks and months ahead for those affected. For more information on the fund, please visit http://eccf.org/Lawrenceemergencyfund
About Harvard Pilgrim Health Care
Harvard Pilgrim and its family of companies provide health benefit plans, programs and services to more than 3 million customers in New England and beyond. A leading not-for-profit health services company, we guide our members – and the communities we serve – to better health. Founded by doctors nearly 50 years ago, we’re building on our legacy. In partnership with our expansive network of doctors and hospitals, we’re improving health outcomes and lowering costs through clinical quality and innovative care management. Our commitment to the communities we serve is driven by the passion of the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Foundation. Through its work, low- and moderate-income families are gaining greater access to fresh, affordable food — a cornerstone to better health and well-being. To learn more about Harvard Pilgrim, visit harvardpilgrim.org.
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Contact:
Phil Tracey
Harvard Pilgrim Health Care
Philip_Tracey@harvardpilgrim.org
617-509-3493
Website: www.harvardpilgrim.org