As the COVID-19 outbreak’s impact on New Yorkers continues to intensify, Amida Care remains steadfast in our commitment to providing essential services to our members. Now more than ever, our members—including people living with HIV and people experiencing homelessness, who may be especially vulnerable to COVID-19—are depending on us to provide our unique model of coordinated care and essential services. Amida Care has a long history of advancing access to health care for the most vulnerable, and that will not change. Challenging times like these highlight the importance and value of our mission and the services that Medicaid Special Needs Plans provide.
With the safety of our members, staff, providers, and all New Yorkers in mind, w
e are following social distancing guidelines mandated by public health officials. We have suspended all field-based operations, such as home visits by our outreach workers; postponed all member events, including Town Hall meetings and Live Your Life wellness events; and have temporarily closed our Member Walk-in Center on West 35th Street.
But, we want you to know that we are here for you during this time of turmoil and social distancing.
We are maintaining all crucial services, including our Member Call Center, so that we continue to provide the highest level of service to address community needs. We are providing our members with information and resources about COVID-19; ensuring they know that all medically necessary services related to COVID-19, including visits to urgent care centers, are covered under our health plan; and staying in contact with our provider network with frequent updates.
I am proud of the dedication and resilience of our Amida Care team and all the New York health care workers who are on the front lines making sacrifices to save lives and stem the tide of this public health crisis. It is vitally important to remember that we will get through this by working together and staying as connected as possible.
During times like these, fear, anxiety, and sadness are natural emotions. It is essential to take the time for self-care, whether it be a few moments of meditation or getting exercise. If you or your family and friends need help, resources are available from a variety of sources, including the
CDC
and the New York State Office of Mental Health, which runs an emotional support hotline 7 days a week from 8 am to 10 pm:
1-844-863-9314
.
