Support Tools and News from Insurance Carriers - COVID-19

News of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) has been dominating the headlines. During this time, if your employees have any health concerns, they are urged to complete the online self-assessment tool or contact the dedicated Coronavirus information line (1-888-COVID19). If employees still have concerns after taking the assessment, they can call 8-1-1 and connect to a Nurse. Nurses are available 24/7 to help you with non-emergency health concerns (emergency concerns are directed to go to the hospital or call 9-1-1).

The College of Pharmacists of British Columbia has provided an update to ensure a continued supply of prescription medications. To avoid any non-essential visits with a doctor or nurse practitioner, a pharmacist can provide you with a refill of your prescription or provide you with an emergency supply of medications you need. If you are feeling unwell and require medications, please do not visit your pharmacy. Instead, call your pharmacy and they will arrange to safely provide you any medications you may need. The College’s “Find a Pharmacy” tool can help you locate a pharmacy in your community.

Another source for information is Healthlinkbc.ca. This website has public health alerts, locations of urgent and primary care centres, articles and a “Check Your Symptoms” quiz. HealthLinkBC also has a mobile app to help you locate walk-in clinics, hospitals, emergency rooms, immunization locations, pharmacies and laboratory services.

World Health Organization (WHO) also has resources and advice for the public. This includes Myth-busters, advice for health workers, and getting your workplace ready. Check out these posters on Coping with Stress during the Outbreak and Helping Children Cope with Stress during the Outbreak.

Note:

For plans without short-term disability coverage: if an employee is placed in quarantine, they could be eligible for employment insurance benefits. Please visit the Employment Insurance site to find out about the terms and conditions for coverage.

We have compiled a list of insurance carrier COVID-19 updates and will be maintaining these links with the most recent information.

If you have a situation within your team and have questions about your plans’ coverage please let us know.