Medibank announces assistance package for flood victims
Medibank has this morning released details of assistance it will provide to individuals and families affected by the Queensland floods. The flood relief package includes:
- the establishment of a free 24-hour counselling hotline
- premium relief for members affected by the floods
- $250,000 donation to assist with relief efforts
- working with hospitals to assist members to find accommodation if they are unable to return to their homes after being discharged from a hospital stay
- gift-matching for staff donations.
Medibank's contribution efforts are headed by the establishment of a free 24-hour telephone hotline to assist people experiencing psychological or emotional distress as a result of the floods. Following the initial shock of the floods and once the floods subside, people may experience long-term psychological problems such as depression and anxiety disorders and it is important that we support these people and encourage them to seek assistance.
The organisation has offered the expertise of its Medibank Health Solutions business to the Queensland government free of charge and will deliver the counselling and triage service through referrals from the Queensland's government's 13 HEALTH (13 432 584) telephone line. This support is free of charge to all members of the community.
Medibank is providing financial assistance in the form of premium relief to members affected by the floods. Those who require assistance or have a general enquiry about their cover are encouraged to phone Medibank on 132 331.
In addition to this, Medibank is announcing a corporate donation of $250,000 to the Premier's Disaster Relief Appeal to assist with the relief efforts.
Medibank is also working with hospitals to help members who are being discharged with suitable alternative accommodation if they are unable to return to their homes due to flooding. The fund is also working with hospitals to help our members who have been evacuated and relocated to other hospitals as a result of the flood crisis.
The majority of Medibank Private retail stores remain open in Queensland and we are encouraging customers with any questions to either visit a store or call us on 132 331 with enquiries about going to hospital, making claims and other information about their health insurance. Similarly, most Medibank Health Solutions operations remain open.
Like many companies, a number of Medibank staff members have been severely impacted by the floods. Medibank is committed to supporting customers, employees and communities during this difficult time and will work to help get them back on their feet.
The Medibank flood relief package is being provided on behalf of all Medibank businesses - Medibank Private, Medibank Health Solutions, ahm, The Travel Doctor - TMVC, Carepoint Industrial Health Services, Carepoint Physiotherapy Services, Fitness2live.