Sun Sentinel Palm Beach Edition

■ Some insurers will allow early refill of medication­s for residents concerned about running out of prescripti­ons during or after the storm.

- By Cindy Krischer Goodman Cindy Krischer Goodman can be reached at cgoodman@sunsentine­l.com, 954-356-4661, Twitter and Instagram @cindykgood­man

Floridians concerned about running out of medication during or after the storm will get relief in knowing some insurers are allowing members in all counties to get an early refill of their medication­s.

Florida Blue said its members can get a 30-day emergency supply of medication from in-network pharmacies through Sept. 28. In addition, should their doctors offices close, members can members can use the Florida Blue website or mobile app, or call Florida Blue, to find care at an alternativ­e participat­ing provider.

United Healthcare also said its plan participan­ts who need help finding a care provider in the UnitedHeal­thcare network or who want to obtain early prescripti­on refills can call customer care at the number located on the back of their medical ID cards.

Doctors are encouragin­g anyone who may be impacted by Hurricane Dorian to have a minimum of a twoweek supply of any necessary overthe-counter or prescripti­on medication­s.

Other suggestion­s from Florida Blue:

Place medication­s in a water-tight container.

Stock extra medical supplies used on a regular basis such as blood testing strips or oxygen tanks.

Keep a list of all medication­s, dosages and prescribin­g provider with other important documents in a safe, dry location.

Keep a copy of your health insurance cards and doctor’s orders and/ or style and serial numbers of medical supplies you may use.

Make a medical contact list with phone numbers for your doctors, pharmacy, medical facilities and other providers.

Prepare or restock a first aid kit. Make sure nothing in it has expired. The first aid kit should include items such as antihistam­ine (oral and creams), ace bandages, adhesive bandages of all sizes, antibiotic cream, anesthetic spray or lotion, exam gloves, tweezers, non-adhesive pads and adhesive tape. Also make sure you have items such sunscreen, aloe and bug repellent on hand.

Have ice available for medication­s that must stay refrigerat­ed (such as insulin). Consult with your doctor and/or pharmacist about storage requiremen­ts for your medication before the storm.

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