Attention First Choice VIP Care (HMO D-SNP) members and providers:

A strong winter storm is expected on January 24, 2026. South Carolina’s Governor, Henry McMaster, has declared a state of emergency. First Choice VIP Care is here to support all members and providers in staying safe. 

Get Help

• Our offices in non-affected regions will stay open during the storm.
• The Nurse Call Line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 1-855-707-0850 (TTY 711).
• If you have an emergency, please dial 911.
• Phone wait time may be longer than normal. Thank you for being patient.

Please note that normal prior authorization requirements for medical services will be relaxed for the duration of the declared state of emergency to ensure member needs are met:

• You can refill regular medications early, so you don’t run out.
• You may use an out-of-network pharmacy if your regular pharmacy is closed or unsafe to reach. First Choice VIP Care members can use many pharmacies (including CVS, Walgreens, Wal-Mart, and others) in any state.
• Emergency hospital stays and skilled nursing facility stays, nursing facilities, and rehabilitation and long-term acute care facilities will be approved as needed.
• Urgent medically necessary outpatient procedures that normally need prior authorization will be approved as needed.
• Essential medical supplies and equipment for members affected by the storm will be approved as needed.
• Medicare-certified out-of-network and/or out-of-state providers may be used if medically necessary.
• Providers, administrative denials for late notification will be waived at this time.
• Emergency care is always covered. If you are having an emergency, please call 911 or seek medical attention immediately.

We will provide further information and updates, as they become available.

Important numbers and resources

• First Choice VIP Care Member Services: 1-888-996-0499 (TTY 711)
  • Hours of operation October 1 – March 31: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., seven days a week. April 1 – September 30: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., Monday through Friday. (Eastern time)
• 24/7 Nurse Call Line: 1-855-707-0850 (TTY 711), seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• First Choice VIP Care Provider Services: 1-888-978-0151, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• First Choice VIP Care Prior Authorization: 1-877-375-4460 (phone), 1-833-512-1700 (fax)
• For the latest information on the winter storm in our state, please visit the South Carolina Emergency Management Division website.