PROVIDENCE, RI — In response to the ongoing disruption in natural gas service on Aquidneck Island that is forcing many from their homes, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI) is helping displaced members access healthcare services.

Starting today and until natural gas service is restored, BCBSRI members on Aquidneck Island can access Doctors Online, our telemedicine service, at no additional cost.* Members will be reimbursed for any charges during this period. Doctors Online can be accessed from a smartphone, tablet or computer. Minor illnesses and injuries can be treated by a Doctors Online provider.

For those Aquidneck Island members who have been displaced and are concerned about filling prescriptions, BCBSRI is temporarily allowing affected members to get refills early.

“Our thoughts are with everyone on Aquidneck Island and we recognize that it is incredibly challenging for people to get the care they need if they are displaced from their homes," said Kim Keck, BCBSRI president and CEO. “We hope that by eliminating cost barriers to accessing Doctors Online and making it easier to refill much-needed prescriptions early, our affected members can be assured they will continue to be cared for during this difficult time."

The BCBSRI customer support team is available to answer any questions members have and can help: explain benefits; answer prescription medication questions; find doctors, hospitals, and dialysis or other treatment centers; coordinate or transition care; and locate medical care and behavioral health support. To reach customer support, call 1-800-639-222, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to noon.

BCBSRI is also working with its community partners that service Aquidneck Island, including the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center, to maintain their ability to offer supports to residents.

For more information regarding BCBSRI’s support for members, please visit www.bcbsri.com/emergencysupport.

*Under federal rules, BCBSRI cannot reimburse members who have a high deductible health plan that qualifies them for a health savings account (HSA).