Mutual of Omaha recognizes the severe hardships faced by those impacted by Hurricane Katrina, and we are committed to responding with sensitivity and flexibility to customers' needs during this period of uncertainty.

Mutual has taken a number of actions to assist customers impacted by Katrina. Prior events such as Sept. 11, 2001 provide experience for how Mutual of Omaha will handle life, health and disability claims. All will be handled with sensitivity and flexibility.

Mutual will monitor the situation and the emergency rules being issued by the affected states and will continue to re-evaluate whether additional assistance is appropriate. We will keep you updated on future actions as they occur.

Special hotlines have been established to assist customers with hurricane-related issues. They are 1-800-719-9887 or (402) 351-1424. Specially trained customer service representatives are available to assist those impacted by Katrina. You are encouraged to share these numbers with your sales representatives and staff to assist them in handling questions by impacted customers.

Here is a summary of actions currently being taken in response to Hurricane Katrina:

• A special toll-free hotline has been established for customers impacted by Katrina. It is 1-800-719-9887. Impacted customers may also call (402) 351-1424.
  
• Grace periods for individual customers and premium submission dates for group customers have been extended, and no policy will be cancelled for non-payment of premium before Jan. 1, 2006.
  
• A special web page with information for customers impacted by Katrina has been posted on www.mutualofomaha.com.
  
• Individuals covered under Mutual of Omaha PPO policies are encouraged to seek medical care as necessary and where most conveniently provided. All services will be treated as in-network care until Nov. 1.
  
• Medical precertification penalties have been waived until Nov. 1 for customers within FEMA designated disaster areas.
  
• Mutual of Omaha customers who have lost their medications are eligible for early refill of the prescriptions. Customers may contact our pharmacy benefits manager, Express Scripts Inc., toll free at 1-866-781-7533 for assistance with local pharmacy and mail order prescriptions. This phone service is available 24/7.
  
• Mutual of Omaha will cooperate with health care providers to ensure that those covered under the company's health plans receive all necessary care. This includes working with providers to establish coverage eligibility as well as researching medical histories and prescription drug needs.
  
• Mutual's basic Employee Assistance Program services are being made available to all customers.
  
• Mutual is conducting a special fund-raising drive among employees and agents, with funds to go to the American Red Cross for Katrina relief. The company will match, dollar-for-dollar, all donations.