Avista urges its customers reliant on electricity-powered medical equipment to proactively prepare for potential power outages. The utility provider offers support services and recommendations to safeguard medical needs during emergencies.
Avista customers who depend on medical equipment powered by electricity face potential challenges during power outages. Avista, the local utility provider, advises customers to plan ahead to mitigate risks associated with electricity disruptions. Power outages, whether due to weather events, maintenance activities, or equipment failures, can occur unexpectedly, highlighting the importance of readiness.
Avista advises its customers with medical equipment requiring electricity to contact its CARES team at (888) 700-2757 to register their medical needs. By doing so, they can be included in a special notification list, ensuring they receive additional alerts in the event of prolonged power outages. These proactive measures enable customers to make timely arrangements for alternative medical assistance if necessary.
Avista recommends that customers with medical equipment explore alternative measures in case of power interruptions. This includes consulting with physicians about backup options and making arrangements for transportation and accommodations with friends or relatives if needed. Additionally, customers are encouraged to assess the suitability of home generators for their specific medical needs and seek advice from licensed professionals.
Customers may qualify for additional support from Avista if they have certain life-supporting equipment, such as but not limited to:
- Dialysis equipment
- Ventilators
- Infant apnea monitors
- Feeding or infusion pumps
- Suction machines
- Oxygen concentrators
- Ventricular assist devices
These customers will not face disconnection for nonpayment, but they must make arrangements for outstanding balances if they fall behind. Avista requires a physician-signed form to verify life-support status, ensuring appropriate assistance is provided. The Medical Equipment Needs Form can be found at: DPGazette.com/iq4ep
At the bottom of the form, it asks the the Physician’s Office Return Form to a Fax Number: 1 (866) 458-5710. Avista’s website also states to contact the CARES team at (888) 700-2757 or email [email protected] for more information on submitting the form.
While Avista endeavors to restore power promptly during outages, completion of the recommended actions does not guarantee priority service. Therefore, customers are advised to maintain comprehensive emergency plans tailored to their medical requirements.
Sources:
- Avista Corporation. “Medical Equipment.” Avista Utilities, Myavista.com/outages/medical-equipment. Accessed 23 March 2024.
