World Trade Center Health Program to Switch Providers August 1

Starting August 1, 9/11 first responders and survivors enrolled in the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program will have a new Nationwide Provider Network (NPN): Managed Care Advisors (MCA) Sedgwick.

MCA-Sedgwick will replace Logistics Health Incorporated (LHI).

The transition to MCA-Sedgwick occurs after many WTC Health Program members complained about difficulties accessing medical care through LHI, mainly delays in obtaining illness certification letters required for 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) claims.

Barasch & McGarry, representing more than 30,000 members of the 9/11 community, advocated for the WTC Health Program to replace LHI with another provider network.

In a letter to clients, Managing Partner Michael Barasch, himself a health program member, discussed the “problems and frustrations” 9/11 responders and survivors have experienced with LHI.

Though the transition to MCA-Sedgwick will not improve services immediately, Barasch wrote, a new provider could ultimately reduce waiting times for appointments and provide certification letters soon after an appointment.

According to the WTC Health Program, most members will have the ability to keep their current health care provider.

The health program noted that MCA-Sedgwick will assign new case managers and care coordinators for members.

Until the transition to MCA-Sedwick has been completed, WTC Health Program members should continue to contact LHI directly at 877-498-2911 or through the LHI member portal.

Both first responders and people who were working, living, or studying in Lower Manhattan on or after 9/11 are at risk of developing 68 different types of cancer and many respiratory illnesses due to their exposure to Ground Zero toxins.

If you were there and you are diagnosed with a 9/11-related illness, you are eligible to enroll in the WTC Health Program.

In addition, you are eligible to register with the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund – even if you are currently healthy.

Visit www.911victims.com or call 212-385-8000 today.