IEHP’s response to the Line Fire
Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) is stepping in to support members affected by the Line Fire, a fast-moving wildfire that has burned over 20,000 acres. The damage isn’t just to land; it disrupts daily life and threatens the health and well-being of people living in nearby communities.
Immediate outreach to members in harm’s way
IEHP’s Behavioral Health and Care Management (BHCM) team is proactively contacting members in impacted areas to check on their safety and needs. More than 2,300 members live in regions hit hard by the fire, including over 100 people who are homebound or rely on medical equipment. The goal is simple and urgent: make sure members get timely help, from basics like medications to support that keeps their health stable during an uncertain time.
Proactive communication and practical help
Since early September, BHCM team members have been making phone calls to see where people are, how they’re doing, and what they need right now. Some had to evacuate with little notice and left behind essential medications or equipment. To close that gap, the team has coordinated with local pharmacies so prescriptions can be filled quickly and immediate needs are met. The focus is on keeping care moving so no one is left without support in the middle of an emergency.
What members are facing
The Line Fire has forced difficult choices and fast exits. Some members received only brief warnings before evacuating, which made it hard to gather supplies or plan. Yajaira Aragon, a BHCM manager, noted the added challenge when members fled to distant areas—reconnecting them with essential care providers takes extra time and coordination. Even so, the team continues working case by case to restore care and solve problems as they arise.
Community shelters and where to go
For evacuated residents, IEHP has worked with local authorities to help identify shelter options. Safe spaces include the Jessie Turner Health and Fitness Community Center and the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds. Pets haven’t been forgotten either—evacuees can temporarily house them at the Devore Animal Shelter. The through-line is clear: keep members safe and help families stay together as much as possible.
A commitment to member well-being
IEHP’s mission centers on improving health and wellness for its community, and that mission doesn’t pause during a crisis. Chief Executive Officer Jarrod McNaughton reaffirmed that the health and safety of members come first. IEHP is prepared to mobilize resources, remove barriers to care, and stand with members until the danger passes and recovery begins.
Learning from past responses
When a severe snowstorm hit another small community, IEHP organized comprehensive food giveaways for residents dealing with power outages and limited access to essentials. That experience—acting quickly, focusing on what people need most—guides the current response to the Line Fire and underscores IEHP’s steady, compassionate approach to care.
Updates, coordination, and how to get help
IEHP remains in close contact with the agencies managing the Line Fire and is adjusting support as conditions change. Members who need immediate assistance can call IEHP Member Services at 1-800-440-IEHP (4347). The helpline connects members to practical resources and help when it’s needed most.
About IEHP
Founded in 1996, Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) is one of the nation’s largest Medicaid health plans. It serves more than 1.5 million people in Riverside and San Bernardino County who are enrolled in Medicaid or IEHP DualChoice plans. IEHP continues to expand access to care, including recent growth into Covered California plans. Across both counties, a robust network of quality doctors—and nearly 4,000 dedicated team members—works toward one aim: consistent, community-centered care that helps people stay healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Line Fire, and what’s at stake for residents?
The Line Fire is a major wildfire that has burned over 20,000 acres, threatening homes, services, and day-to-day routines for people living nearby. It also creates serious health risks for residents who need ongoing care.
How is IEHP reaching and supporting members right now?
IEHP’s BHCM team is calling members in impacted areas, checking on their needs, coordinating prescription refills with local pharmacies, and helping connect them to immediate resources, especially if they evacuated quickly.
Where can evacuees find shelter and care for pets?
Evacuated residents can seek shelter at the Jessie Turner Health and Fitness Community Center and the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds. Pets can be temporarily housed at the Devore Animal Shelter.
How do I contact IEHP if I need assistance?
Call IEHP Member Services at 1-800-440-IEHP (4347). The helpline can help with questions, connections to services, and urgent needs related to the fire.
What’s IEHP’s mission and who does it serve?
IEHP’s mission is to heal and inspire the human spirit by delivering comprehensive health care. The plan serves over 1.5 million residents in Riverside and San Bernardino County through Medicaid and IEHP DualChoice, with recent expansions that include Covered California plans.
