Skip to main content

Teladoc Offers Free Virtual Care for Maui's Fire Victims, First Responders

Analysis  |  By John Commins  
   August 15, 2023

The death toll from the wild fires hit 99 on Tuesday, with dozens more fatalities expected.

Teledoc Health is offering free 24/7 virtual primary healthcare services for survivors, first responders and other Hawaii residents affected by Maui's devastating and deadly wildfires.

The offering by the Purchase, NY-based telehealth provider will give affected residents access to healthcare professionals for nonemergency services including nonnarcotic prescription drug refills by calling Teledoc Health at 855-225-5032.  Emergency cases are referred to 911.

"When medical resources are already strained during natural disasters, virtual care can help patients manage wildfire-induced flare ups of chronic illnesses, such as asthma," Teladoc Health CMO Vidya Raman-Tangella, MD, says in a media release. "Virtual care is a proven solution that supports community health during these times, and we are grateful to provide access to care as Hawaii rebuilds and recovers from the fires."

At least 99 people have been confirmed dead from the wildfires, and the number could double over the next 10 days, Hawaii Gov. Josh Green told CNN.

"It is a tragedy beyond tragedies," the governor said about the fires that started sweeping parts of the island last week.

Teladoc has routinely offered free virtual care to people living in areas that have devastated by natural disasters, including hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, floods, power outages and blizzards for non-emergency illnesses including respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and prescription drug renewals.

“When medical resources are already strained during natural disasters, virtual care can help patients manage wildfire-induced flare ups of chronic illnesses, such as asthma.”

John Commins is a content specialist and online news editor for HealthLeaders, a Simplify Compliance brand.


KEY TAKEAWAYS

The offering will give residents access to healthcare professionals for nonemergency services including nonnarcotic prescription drug refills.

Teladoc has routinely offered free virtual care to people living in areas that have devastated by natural disasters.


Get the latest on healthcare leadership in your inbox.