SoonerCare Member Newsletter • June 2024

SoonerCare Member Memo

June 2024


Summer Safety Tips

Photo of boy running through sprinkler

 

Summer is the time for getting outside. But too much sun or heat can be dangerous.

You can reduce your risk of sun damage and skin cancer by staying in the shade. Find an umbrella, tree or other spot to seek shelter. Use sunscreen or wear protective clothing when you're outside. Even if you're in the shade, you'll still need protection.

As the temperatures climb, be sure to keep an eye on the heat. You can use this map to track your heat risk. If it's red or above, here are some tips:

  • Stay in the shade as much as possible.
  • Do outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day or evening.
  • Carry a water bottle. Drink and refill it throughout the day.
  • Limit drinks high in sugars and sodium, caffeine and alcohol.
  • Use air conditioning. You can find a location that has A/C by dialing 211, visiting the National Center for Healthy Housing’s Cooling Centers by State page, or by contacting your local health department or emergency management agency.
  • Know the symptoms of your body overheating and know when to seek medical care. Symptoms can include cramping, unusually heavy sweating, shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, weakness and nausea.

Summer is also the time for swimming. But beware: Drowning can happen to anyone, any time there is access to water.

More children ages 1 to 4 die from drowning than any other cause. It can happen in seconds and is often silent. Learn the safety measures to take to stay safe this summer:

  • Learn swimming and water safety skills.
  • Supervise closely.
  • Wear a life jacket.
  • Learn CPR.
  • Know the risks of natural waters.
  • Avoid alcohol.
  • Use the buddy system.
  • Consider the effects of medications.
  • Don't hold your breath underwater for a long period of time.

Use the resources above to help you and your family enjoy a fun and healthy summer.


SoonerSelect Eligibility

As a SoonerCare member, your newborn may be eligible for a SoonerSelect plan starting on their date of birth. If eligible, the child will be assigned to the parent's plan or auto-assigned to a plan if you do not pick one. You have 90 days after your child’s birth to change to plans if you want.

Photo of baby sleeping

Have You Received a Member Survey?

OHCA is sending surveys to some SoonerCare members. We are working to make your member experience the best it can be. If you get a survey, use the provided link or phone number to take the survey. The survey is available in English and Spanish. It takes just a few minutes to complete.


How Colorful is the Food You Eat?

Photo of vegetables on a plate


A colorful plate filled with different fruits and vegetables is part of a good diet. But did you know it can also help your body fight off disease? SoonerCare can connect you to a nutrition expert who can design a meal plan just for you. They'll give you the support you need to better manage your health. Ask your doctor if you qualify for the nutrition benefit and request a referral.


Helping Hands for Tornado and Storm Victims

The recent tornadoes and storms affected many Oklahomans. Some were left without shelter, belongings and crucial medical equipment. That's where Oklahoma ABLE Tech comes in. ABLE Tech is a key participant in the Oklahoma Disaster Plan. They step in during critical times to provide durable medical equipment to those in need.

  • Donate Your Gently Used Medical Equipment. Please consider donating your used or unused durable medical equipment and devices. Your contributions can make a big difference in the lives of disaster survivors. It gives them the support and tools they need to get through the aftermath of natural disasters.
  • Extend a Lifeline. When you donate to ABLE Tech, you’re not just giving away equipment. You’re offering a lifeline to people who have lost much-needed medical support. Your donations allow ABLE Tech to quickly deliver aid. And it helps restore a sense of independence to those affected.
  • Do You Have Lost or Damaged Medical Equipment? If you or someone you know has been impacted by the storms, help is available. Please call ABLE Tech at 405-967-6010. They will help you replace what was lost or damaged. 

SoonerCare Pharmacy Benefits and FAQs

Photo of woman looking at pill vial


Did you know SoonerCare has an alphabetized list of pharmacies?
Search the list to probably find pharmacies near you. Some may even deliver!

Do you know how to make the most of your pharmacy benefit? When possible, ask your provider to prescribe your drugs using those from the 90-day Maintenance Drug List. These will save you time and money. Your monthly prescription limit and cost of prescriptions depends on your age.

Ages 21 and older:

  • 6 total prescriptions each month
  • 2 brand name drugs each month
  • Copay for each prescription is $4

Ages 0 to 20:

  • Unlimited number of prescriptions
  • No copay

Did you know SoonerCare also covers over-the-counter medicines? Eligible over-the-counter medicines must be prescribed by your provider. Some of these medicines don’t count against your monthly prescription limit.

Do you have trouble remembering to take your daily prescription and over-the-counter medicines on time? Check out these helpful tips! There’s also a list of medication-related questions to ask next time you talk to your health care provider.

Do you still have questions? Visit the pharmacy FAQ page. Or call the pharmacy help desk at 405-522-6205, option 4, or toll-free 800-522-0114, option 4. If you are currently or plan to be covered under SoonerSelect, or you have questions about prenatal vitamin coverage, visit the website of your current SoonerSelect health plan or call their pharmacy help desk. 


Requesting a Call Back from SoonerCare?

For SoonerCare to fulfill your request, please make sure spam blocking is turned off on your phone. Sometimes when we return a call, it can show up as spam. Our phone number may also come up as a Colorado or Florida number on your caller ID.


About OHCA

Please call the SoonerCare helpline at 800-987-7767 if you have questions about your coverage or benefits. For updates on new policies, health tips, helpful resources and more, follow OHCA on Facebook and X. The Oklahoma Health Care Authority does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age or disability in employment or the provision of services.

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