Family physicians caring for patients who were displaced by Hurricane Katrina can help them connect to their health insurance plans by giving them a national, toll-free number.
The number -- (800) 644-1818 -- was established by the America's Health Insurance Plans, according to Karen Ignagni, AHIP president.
"Our members initiated this effort because they believe that how to find or reach a health insurer should be the last thing individuals need to worry about after a natural disaster," she said in a Sept. 14 letter to AAFP President Mary Frank, M.D., of Mill Valley, Calif.
In addition, patients can go to an AHIP Web page that provides information about insurance companies' efforts to support Hurricane Katrina victims and their families.
