WellCare Weathers Hurricane Irma

TAMPA, Fla., Sept. 11, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Tampa-based WellCare Health Plans, Inc. (NYSE: WCG), a leading provider of Medicaid, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans throughout the country, today announced that, after activating its emergency business continuity plan ahead of Hurricane Irma's arrival in Florida, its Tampa-area facilities remain operational and the company is facing minimal interruption in business in serving its 4.4 million members.

"The safety of our associates, members and neighbors is our top priority. Many of our members have complex needs whether they live in Florida, Georgia or other affected states, they need us now more than ever. Last week we implemented our emergency preparedness plans and activated our contingency plans for remote work. Our members will remain our top priority as they deal with the widespread effects of this historic storm. Our WellCare associates are ready, willing and able to respond to member inquiries, provider requests and all other stakeholder concerns," said Ken Burdick, WellCare's chief executive officer.

WellCare frequently runs disaster simulations for a variety of situations, including a recent three-day drill to prepare for and stand up systems remotely during a mock Category 5 hurricane.

In order to help members during this time of crisis, WellCare care managers are reaching out to our most vulnerable members to assess their needs in all affected areas.  Additionally, WellCare is accommodating those who must refill their prescriptions early due to loss or damage and using providers outside of their typical geographic locations. The company is also following all requirements from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and state agencies regarding members and providers in federal and state of emergency zones.

Additionally, WellCare's Community Assistance Line is available to anyone (member or non-member) who needs assistance from local social service agencies. It is being staffed with additional resources and will have extended hours indefinitely. Call: 1-866-775-2192, 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. EDT Monday - Friday.

About WellCare Health Plans, Inc.

Headquartered in Tampa, Fla., WellCare Health Plans, Inc. (NYSE: WCG) focuses exclusively on providing government-sponsored managed care services, primarily through Medicaid, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans, to families, children, seniors and individuals with complex medical needs. The company served approximately 4.4 million members nationwide as of June 30, 2017. For more information about WellCare, please visit the company's website at www.wellcare.com.

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SOURCE WellCare Health Plans, Inc.