Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Offers Assistance To Its Members In The Yarnell Hill Fire Area.

PHOENIX, July 2, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona is offering assistance to its members who have been affected by the Yarnell Hill Fire in central Arizona.

As part of its emergency response plan, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona is making exceptions to immediately allow for early refills on prescriptions for insured members who have been affected by the fire. In addition, the company will allow a 30-day premium payment extension upon request for affected members with individual and family health coverage.

"The Yarnell community has suffered such a tragic loss with the passing of 19 fire fighters along with an enormous amount of devastation to land and property," said Sue Navran, executive vice president of external operations. "Worrying about health coverage at this time is a concern we want to alleviate for our members. Most importantly, our deepest condolences go out to the family, friends and fellow firefighters who knew the brave heroes that have passed."

Members who need help with their coverage or a premium payment extension during this emergency are encouraged to call the number on the back of their I.D. card, if available, or call (800) 232-2345.

About Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ), an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, is the largest Arizona-based health insurance company. The not-for-profit company was founded in 1939 and provides health insurance products, services or networks to 1.3 million individuals. With offices in Phoenix, Flagstaff, Tucson and the East Valley, the company employs more than 1,300 Arizonans. Follow BCBSAZ at www.facebook.com/bcbsaz or on Twitter at @bcbsaz to get information on health and wellness, a knowledgeable perspective on health insurance reform, and become a part of what we're doing in your community.

SOURCE Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona