Saipan’s FHP Clinic, pharmacy to close

TakeCare Insurance Co. Inc. has advised its clients that they would close down the FHP Clinic and pharmacy on Saipan but assured all who are under their health plan that service coverage won’t be interrupted.

TakeCare, in a letter to its clients, said they decided to close the clinic even though recent studies showed that the provider network in the CNMI is improving. It is not stated whether the study is for the entire healthcare provider industry in the CNMI or for TakeCare only.

The FHP Clinic will be in operation until April 30.

“The patient access study supports this decision and further ensures the available network of independent clinics and providers in the CNMI are more than adequate to service the healthcare needs of TakeCare’s members in the CNMI,” states the letter.

TakeCare said the decision to close the Saipan clinic would allow them to be more focused in being the leading health insurance provider in the CNMI through health plan products and services.

“TakeCare’s comprehensive CNMI network of providers and facilities, along with extensive off-island network providers in Asia and the Pacific, combined with its leadership in wellness and quality, reaffirms its commitment to the CNMI in providing affordable and accessible quality health care that puts you in control.”

TakeCare’s network of providers are in Hawaii, California, the Philippines, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, New Zealand, and Australia.

The company advised patients at FHP Saipan’s clinic to select a new primary care provider from their list, request to transfer medical records from FHP to the new provider, and schedule a first visit with the new provider.

TakeCare will no longer honor any requests for any of their services after April 30 since the clinic will already be closed. “Patient care will be transitioned in partnership with the health plan and its CNMI network providers to ensure a smooth transition for its members.”

“Insurance coverage for existing CNMI members is unaffected. TakeCare is maintaining a service office at the existing Garapan location [at the TSL Plaza] to assist you,” said in the letter.

For questions and scheduling of appointments, call Nora Sablan or Melanie Santos at 235-0994 or 235-0996 to 98.