Health Plan of San Joaquin | Focus Your Health | Fall 2020

F ocus Your Health 5 Refrigerated meds You may know that some of your meds have to be refrigerated. Many of those meds will stay stable at room temperature for a few days. It is good to keep these meds cool, but do not use ice. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat. Call your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Insulin Insulin should be stored at 36 to 48 degrees. Once open, it can be stored at room temperature for up to 28 days. If the insulin gets too hot or too cold it can be ruined. Keep insulin away from high heat and do not let it freeze. You may have to replace your insulin if you notice that:  ● It is cloudy or has changed color  ● It has clumps even after being rolled  ● It has threads or strings  ● Your blood sugar stays high even after a correct dose If you are worried about any of your meds not being safe to use or if you want a replacement, call your doctor or pharmacy. Electrical medical equipment Please call HPSJ’s medical equipment provider, Western Drug Medical Supply, at 818.956.6691 if you use life-sustaining medical equipment that needs electricity to work. They can help you get other devices if you are not able to use a regular power source. Tips for dialysis patients Your renal dialysis clinic should be able to see you if you need help with dialysis urgently dur - ing a power outage. If you have a problem get - ting supplies during a power outage, call HPSJ Care Coordination at 209.942.6352 . If you are not able to get in, please call 911 in the case of an emergency. It is important not to forget:  Your prescription medications  To charge medical devices or equipment important for your health  Your HPSJ ID card If you are affected by power outages or a natural disaster, we want to make sure you have your medications. An urgent care or pharmacy can help fill some meds. In the case of an emergency, you can also go to your local emergency room. Office visits If you cannot see your doctor, we can help you find one. You can do this on our website at hpsj.com under “Member Tools”and “Provider Directory.” You can also visit the local urgent care center. Mental health Power outages can be stressful. You have access to mental health professionals and social work - ers as an HPSJ member. Just call 888.581.7526 .