President and CEO response to COVID-19
Dear valued community,
As the situation around Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to evolve, I’m reaching out to remind you that we’re here to help you make sense of everything and to reassure you that we’re taking added precautions to ensure we continue to meet everyone’s needs even in times of disruption. As always, SBC is focused on the wellbeing of our employees, our members, our customers and our communities. With strong local roots, we have demonstrated an unyielding commitment to stand with our members and communities for almost eight decades — and today is no different.
To prepare, we are working to ensure the safety of our employees. While that may include working remotely, we do not expect any disruption in service and are ready to provide members and customers the help they need. Effective March 16, 2020, our Regina and Saskatoon offices will be temporarily closed to walk-in traffic. Our contact centre will remain open to serve your needs, and customers can continue to reach us at 1 800 667 6853 or email using our contact page on the website. Claims will continue to be processed and customers can submit them by mail, or online at www.sk.bluecross.ca. You can also purchase an individual health plan by applying online or calling us at 1-800-667-6853.
On March 13th, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs issued an official Global Travel Advisory to avoid non-essential travel abroad and was encouraging Canadian’s to return home.
How This May Affect You
As a result of the Government of Canada’s Global Travel Advisory, we have suspended the purchase of Daily Travel or Top Up extensions.
For members with Individual Plans, our Daily Travel Plan and VIP Travel Optional Benefits under our Blue Choice and Conversion Plans do not cover expenses incurred in a country, region or city where a travel warning of ‘Avoid Non-Essential Travel’ or ‘Avoid All Travel’ was in place prior to the date of departure.
For members with Group/Employer Plans & International Student Plans, the Outside Province of Residence Travel Benefits under our Group Plans and International Student Travel Plan do not include an exclusion in relation to travel warnings. However, all travelers should be aware that there are health risks when you travel, and we would generally advocate reconsidering your travel plans in order to protect the health of travelers and the Canadian public.
If you are travelling in the next seven days or have any immediate concerns, our team is available for you at 1-800-USE-BLUE (1-800-873-2583).
It’s important to note that local, provincial and national public health officials continue to advise that the risk of contracting COVID-19 in Canada remains low. While we know information is constantly changing and can seem a little scary, it is important to not panic. Health Canada (www.canada.ca) and Government of Saskatchewan (www.saskatchewan.ca) and other local government websites are great resources to get truth, facts and knowledge about COVID-19 and what is taking place, including travel advice.
Just like you, we are doing the best that we can to navigate these uncertain times as it continues to evolve. We know everyone is facing uncertainty, and we are offering our support, flexibility, and understanding to help everyone manage both their health and peace of mind. We’re committed to keeping you informed with the most up-to-date information on our website, including Frequently Asked Questions.
Thank you for being our member. Our priority is — and will always remain — with you.
Shelley Vandenberg
President and CEO