Anthem Helps Flood-Damaged Columbus Hospital Recover

Press Release

INDIANAPOLIS—June 30, 2008—In an effort to help Columbus Regional Hospital return to normal operations as quickly as possible, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield has made a $10,000 donation to the hospital’s foundation and its flood recovery fund.

Historic flooding forced the 225-bed hospital to be evacuated and closed on June 7. Robert W. Hillman, president of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Indiana, says the donation is a recognition of the hospital’s pivotal role in the health of the Columbus community.

“Our hearts go out to the people of Columbus and to our partners at Columbus Regional Hospital, whose mission to serve the health care needs of their neighbors has been disrupted by the recent flooding,” said Hillman. “While many Indiana communities felt the impact of these terrible floods, we’re especially concerned about the effect on Columbus-area residents. That’s why we’re making this donation in hopes that the community’s access to the quality medical care provided by the hospital will return to normal as soon as possible.”

Julie Abedian, president of the Columbus Regional Hospital Foundation says the outpouring of support from businesses and individuals across Indiana is making a difference.

“We are so gratified with the response from our neighbors, from our partners like Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and from hospitals across the state,” Abedian said.

Anthem has also established for its members a free hotline to provide confidential counseling and other emotional support through Anthem EAP (employee assistance program). The hotline number is 1-877-208-8240 and is staffed 24 hours a day by skilled mental health care professionals who are trained to provide confidential, professional support to assist in the healing process.

Anthem members will also have free access to a specialized Web site (www.anthemeap.com) with information and resources on issues such as grief, emotional trauma and depression. The telephone counseling and Web resources will be available at no cost to Anthem members until July 30, 2008.

“As residents return home and assess the damage caused by the flood, they may be overwhelmed mentally, physically and emotionally,” said David Lee, M.D. vice president of Health Care Management for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield. “We want the residents of Columbus and the other affected communities across the state to know that Anthem is prepared to assist by providing trained health care professionals who will help them through these emotionally trying times.”

“We’re happy to announce that Columbus Regional Hospital is once again providing emergency services to the community through a mobile ER unit,” said James Bickel, hospital CEO. “That is a milestone that comes just two weeks after the severe flood and storm damage. Anthem’s support will help us in our efforts to make continued progress and return to normal operations just as soon as possible.”

Source: Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield