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Don’t Take a Chance with Your Health - Stay Ready This Hurricane Season *ONLINE ONLY*

July 2025

By Louisiana Healthcare Connections

With the Atlantic hurricane season officially running from June 1-November 30, the Medicaid health plan is working to ensure its members have access to the care, prescriptions, and support they need before, during, and after a storm.

“Hurricanes can disrupt access to care, medications, and medical supplies,” said Dr. Stewart Gordon, Chief Medical Officer for Louisiana Healthcare Connections. “We urge our members and all Louisianans to start their medical preparations early, especially those with chronic conditions, disabilities, or other ongoing healthcare needs.”

To help individuals stay safe and healthy, Louisiana Healthcare Connections recommends the following hurricane preparedness tips:

• Prepare Medications in Advance: Keep a written list of all prescription medications, including dosages and instructions, in your emergency kit.

• Safeguard Medical Information and ID Cards: Store copies of health insurance cards, medical records, and your medication list in a waterproof, easy-to-access location. Consider downloading the LA Wallet app for digital access to health plan cards, if mobile service is available.

• Ensure Medical Device Readiness: Fully charge any powered medical devices, such as oxygen machines or nebulizers, and prepare backup power sources. If you rely on powered devices, register with your utility company and parish emergency authorities to receive assistance during outages.

• Register for Medical Needs Support: If you require special medical assistance during emergencies, pre-register with your parish’s Office of Emergency Preparedness (OEP).

• Update Emergency Contact Information: Make sure your doctor and health plan have your current phone number and address on file.

The health plan has also activated its multi-channel emergency communications system, including statewide assessment tools that can detect service disruptions and redirect members to functioning providers and pharmacies.

Louisiana Healthcare Connections members who need help prior to a storm should visit www.LouisianaHealthConnect.com or call 1-866-595-8133 (TTY: 711). In an actual emergency, always dial 9-1-1.

“Hurricanes don’t just damage homes—they put health at risk by cutting off care and medication access,” said Jamie Schlottman, CEO & Plan President of Louisiana Healthcare Connections. “We want every Louisiana family to have a plan, and the tools, to weather the storm with their health intact.”

For storm season safety tips, including emergency kit checklists and evacuation planning resources, visit www.GetAGamePlan.org.

About Louisiana Healthcare Connections:A Medicaid health plan serving the Louisiana Department of Health, Louisiana Healthcare Connections was launched in 2012 to provide the best benefits and programs possible to improve the overall health of the families and communities we serve. We are a company of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), focused on identifying and removing barriers to good health with sustainable solutions that help improve health outcomes. Through a family of engaged employees, dedicated providers and community partners, we deliver care for the health of all with Medicaid Made Personal. For more information, visit www.louisianahealthconnect.com.