Health Net Takes Immediate Action to Assist Victims of California Emergencies and Sewage Spill
In recent weeks, California has faced a series of daunting challenges, including extreme weather events and a severe sewage spill in Lake County. In light of these disasters, Governor Gavin Newsom declared a State of Emergency, prompting Health Net, a key player in the state's Medi-Cal managed care system, to step up its support for affected members and healthcare providers.
Overview of the Emergencies
Health Net's response addresses multiple emergencies affecting Californians. These include:
- - September 2025 Storms in Imperial and San Bernardino Counties.
- - December 2025 Atmospheric Rivers across Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Shasta Counties.
- - January 2026 Sewage Spill in Lake County.
- - February 2026 Storms in Glenn, Humboldt, and Mendocino Counties.
- - September 2026 El Niño Events impacting the state.
Supporting Members in Crisis
To assist members during this critical period, Health Net has implemented various measures:
Emergency Medication Access
Members whose medication needs to be filled can choose between two options:
1.
Visit Original Pharmacy: If the pharmacy is operational, members can pick up their prescriptions as usual.
2.
Out-of-Network Prescriptions: If the original pharmacy is closed, members can simply call Health Net at 1-800-400-8987. The organization will lift refill limitations, allowing members to get their medications from an out-of-network pharmacy.
Mental Health Support
Health Net recognizes that natural disasters can have a psychological impact. Their
Behavioral Health Services are available 24/7, allowing members to reach out for crisis support and mental health referrals, stress management, or counseling services.
- - Hotline Number: Members can dial 1-800-400-8987 (TTY 711) for assistance.
Telehealth Services
Given the potential for transportation disruptions, Health Net has made telehealth services accessible at no cost for those unable to contact their primary care providers. Members can easily find appointment instructions on the back of their Health Net ID card or through their online account on the Health Net website.
Connecting with Local Resources
Health Net also encourages members to contact
United Way’s 211 Service for a wide array of community resources, including:
- - Emergency shelters
- - Food and transport services
- - Financial assistance
- - Legal guidance from verified organizations
Support for Healthcare Providers
Health Net understands the challenges faced by healthcare providers during such emergencies. They offer special provisions to assist doctors and nurse practitioners:
- - Notification Grace Periods: Extension of notification deadlines for a variety of services, including acute care and home health care.
- - Authorization of Out-of-Network Services: This ensures that necessary medical support continues seamlessly even if local providers are unavailable.
Ongoing Updates and Information
As these emergencies evolve, Health Net is committed to maintaining clear communication. Members can frequently check for updates on the Health Net website to stay informed about new resources, support measures, and policy changes related to their healthcare services.
About Health Net
Established over 45 years ago, Health Net operates under Centene Corporation, aiming to provide accessible healthcare to all Californians, regardless of their circumstances. With a network of over 117,000 providers, Health Net serves more than three million members and continues to focus on helping communities, especially during challenging times like these.
For more information on available services, visit
www.HealthNet.com.