The everchanging situation surrounding the COVID-19 crisis is bringing out the best in the community and businesses who want to do what they can to help.

From innovative ways to continue providing services to customers to donating dollars and other assorted equipment and supplies to those providing care to people affected by the virus, there has been no shortage of assistance in recent weeks.

Legacy Foundation establishes response fund

The Legacy Foundation, which serves Lake County, has established an emergency response fund to assist individuals facing hardship due to the crisis. News media reports that donations from the John and James Knight Legacy Foundation, Dean and Barbara White Family Foundation and a joint effort from Legacy Foundation, Crown Point Community Foundation and Foundations of East Chicago, have raised more than $900,000.

Donations to the fund can be made on the Legacy Foundation’s website.

Health providers turning to online patient visits

As confirmed coronavirus cases continue rising, medical providers have been turning to video or online visits with patients. Porter Physician Group is the latest health provider to offer the service to patients.

“Continuity of care is important to us, as is the safety of patients and staff during this time when social distancing and staying at home are critical,” said Sean Dardeau, CEO for Porter Health Care System and the Northwest Indiana Market. “Telehealth can be a solution for many reasons someone may want to see a doctor.”

Although some appointments require a physical examination for the doctor to meet the standard of care and make fully informed decisions, many visits can be managed well through virtual interaction. These may include certain visits for minor illnesses such as colds and allergies; minor injuries such as sprains; follow-up care; medication management; chronic disease management; and back pain.

Porter Health Care said many insurance plans cover telehealth visits. For more information call (844) 774-3627 or visit porterphysiciangroup.com.

Lake County commissioners donate $5,000 to Meals on Wheels

The Lake County Board of Commissioners pledged $5,000 to Meals on Wheels of Northwest Indiana to support seniors receiving food during the pandemic.

“The board of commissioners understands how serious the COVID-19 pandemic is, especially for older adults and people with medical conditions in Lake County,” said Commissioner Michael Repay. “Supporting the essential service Meals on Wheels provides helps Lake County residents have the nutrition they need to stay well.”

Meals on Wheels of Northwest Indiana delivers more than 1,300 meals daily to people in Lake, Porter, Newton, and Jasper counties.

Anthem waives cost share for COVID-19 treatment

Indianapolis-based Anthem announced April 1 it will expand coverage for members in its affiliated health plans undergoing treatment related to a COVID-19 diagnosis.

“During these challenging times, Anthem stands by our legacy and commitment to living our values and supporting those we serve,” said Gail Boudreaux, Anthem president and CEO. “By applying our approach for innovation, compassion and inclusion, we are focused on the issues needed most in this time of crisis, including affordability and access to care for those dealing with treatment related to COVID-19.”

The expansion covers the waiver of cost share for COVID-19 treatment received through May 31. Anthem will reimburse health care providers at in-network rates or Medicare rates, as applicable, for Anthem’s affiliated health plan fully insured, Individual, Medicaid and Medicare Advantage members.

Anthem will also provide post-discharge support to Medicare members with complex care needs who may need additional assistance as they transition back to home following hospitalization.

Anthem serves more than 79 million people through its portfolio of health plans.

Numerous initiatives are underway to help slow the spread of the virus. Assistance also is available to businesses experiencing financial hardship during the crisis.

Many service organizations also have launched websites and increased assistance to aid those in need during pandemic.