At Healthcare Horizons, a significant part of our workday is spent finding and recovering unexpected overpayments in our clients’ self-funded insurance plans. However, this month, rather than focusing on identifying mistakes in healthcare claims, we would like to turn our attention to recent events and the importance of those dear to us.
Unexpected natural disasters hit many people close to us this past month. Hurricane Helene devastated vast areas, including those close to our home in Knoxville, TN. Many of our team members have friends and loved ones who live in the Appalachia region that were severely impacted. One of our clients and most of its employees are located in the state of North Carolina. Watching as their lives were completely disrupted by these events is a humble reminder of the power of nature.
But, as we see so often, the positive shines through. The number of people from around the country who reached out to our office to ask if we were okay was heartwarming. Most moving, though, was watching communities and strangers rally together to provide help during these challenging times.
We learned of families without power opening their doors to neighbors to provide temporary homes. We heard stories of teachers doing wellness checks for several days after the storm until all students were accounted for. We saw truckloads of equipment and supplies brought by good Samaritans from many states to fill immediate needs of food and water.
The examples of fellow humans simply caring for others are innumerable. We so often hear about our differences and disagreements. Yet, in times that are the most challenging, it doesn’t matter what you look like, who you vote for or what beliefs you hold. What matters is that an actual person needs help – and someone is ready to step up.
A Most Thankful Thanksgiving
This Thanksgiving, we are filled with gratitude for the countless individuals who stepped up to help. We are thankful for the love, support and generosity shown to those affected by this disaster.
We wish for everyone to find comfort in the company of loved ones this Thanksgiving. May the spirit of goodwill continue to inspire us all, long after the crisis has passed, and a sense of normalcy returns.
If you would like to help with the ongoing recovery efforts in North Carolina and Tennessee, remember the small businesses during this holiday season. Tourism is reopening in many places. Other businesses are ramping up their online efforts. Below are two links, one with updated information on tourism and the other to provide financial support.