Article Summary –
North Carolina’s DHHS has implemented temporary changes to NC Medicaid to aid Hurricane Helene recovery. These changes, effective through Oct. 15, include easier prescription refills, waivers for prior authorizations, nursing home admissions without screening, and telemedicine access.
North Carolina Adapts Health Care for Hurricane Helene Recovery
In response to Hurricane Helene, North Carolina’s Department of Health and Human Services collaborates with state, federal, and local partners to support residents’ health care access. Temporary changes to NC Medicaid enable easier prescription refills, medical services access, and nursing home admissions. Available through Oct. 15, these flexibilities introduce vital changes.
“This storm has been catastrophic for so many people in our state,” stated Kody Kinsley, NCDHHS secretary.
Key Flexibilities:
- Prescription refills: Beneficiaries may refill prescriptions early, even if relocated out of state.
- Medical services access: No prior authorization for essential drugs and equipment during the emergency. NC Medicaid covers services for relocated beneficiaries.
- Emergency medical treatment: Hospitals can treat patients at alternative locations if main facilities are damaged.
- Nursing home admissions: Expedited admission process without a Preadmission Screening and Resident Review.
- Continuity of care: Hospitals can provide skilled nursing care when placement is unattainable.
- Telemedicine access: Hospitals may use telemedicine to ensure continued care.
Support for Vulnerable Populations:
- Children and adults with disabilities: Disaster plans ensure safety for children with complex medical needs and adults with disabilities.
- Long-term care flexibilities: Easier nursing home admissions and flexible care facilities. Critical access hospitals can exceed bed limits when necessary.
- Intellectual disabilities support: Expanded care spaces in facilities; family members can provide emergency support services, replacing damaged homes or vehicle modifications for Innovations Waiver users.
Additional Support:
- Replacement of medical equipment: Replace lost or damaged medical equipment without extra documentation.
- Telehealth for nursing facilities: Telemedicine ensures continued care in skilled nursing facilities.
Mental Health Resources:
For emotional support, contact the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990, or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
For general information, visit ncdps.gov/helene or ncdhhs.gov/helene, or email [email protected].
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