SoonerCare Member Newsletter • September 2024

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September 2024


Flu, COVID and RSV Vaccines

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Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available to SoonerCare members ages 19 and older. They are available through both the prescription drug and the medical benefits. Vaccines given by pharmacies do not count against the monthly prescription limit.

Members ages 18 and younger must receive the flu and COVID-19 vaccines through a federal Vaccines for Children program provider. Many pediatricians and family physicians are program providers or contact Immunization Service.

The RSV vaccine is recommended for certain groups:

  • All infants should be protected against severe RSV illness by either an RSV vaccine given during pregnancy at least two weeks before delivery or a preventive antibody shot given to infants after birth.
  • Some children 8-19 months who are at increased risk for severe RSV disease should also receive the RSV antibody shot.
  • Adults 60 years and older also may receive one dose of RSV vaccine and should talk with their health care provider about whether RSV vaccination is right for them.

Flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines may be given at the same visit. There is no copay for any of the vaccines.


What to Do in Case of an Opioid Overdose

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Every year, more and more Oklahomans die from accidental opioid overdoses. When someone has an overdose, their breathing slows, or they may stop breathing. Naloxone is used to get them breathing again.

Nearly half of all opioid overdose deaths happen when friends and family are nearby. With the right tools and training, you’ll be ready to help quickly if someone close to you has an opioid overdose.

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First, you’ll need to get naloxone. Naloxone is covered by SoonerCare and does not count towards the monthly script limit or “punches.” You can get naloxone at your local pharmacy. Naloxone is also available through the mail from OK I'm Ready.

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Second, you’ll need to learn the signs of an overdose. Use the acronym BLUE to help you remember:

  • Breathing: Slow breathing or not breathing at all
  • Lips and Limbs: Lips and fingernails may be blue or purple; arms and legs are limp
  • Unresponsive: Not waking up when someone shakes them or shouts at them
  • Eyes: Center of the eye is very small, sometimes called “pinpoint pupils”

If you take opioids, make sure you share this overdose information with your family and friends. If you see someone who might be having an overdose, call 911 immediately and give the person naloxone. Naloxone works quickly. Naloxone does not hurt people if they have not taken an opioid.

Ask your health care provider if naloxone is right for you. If you have questions about naloxone coverage, please call the Pharmacy Help Desk at 405-522-6205, option 4, or toll-free 800-522-0114, option 4.


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.


The Right Equipment Can be Life Changing

Mona smiles at the camera with her left leg on a knee walker. She is giving the photographer a thumbs-up.

This summer, Mona contacted the Oklahoma ABLE Tech Device Reutilization Program. She had received a referral from her physical therapist. Both Mona and her husband needed some durable medical equipment and supplies.  

After submitting their application, Mona received a knee walker. Her husband got a shower chair, bedside table, incontinence supplies and a wheelchair cushion.  

Mona’s mobility greatly increased with the help of the knee walker. It allowed her to continue caring for her husband. She said the equipment her husband received has helped him maintain his dignity. It has also helped him remain as independent as possible. 

To learn more about the Device Reutilization Program, visit the Oklahoma ABLE Tech website. You can apply to receive durable medical equipment. Or you can learn how to donate your gently used equipment.


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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