The Power to Provide Special Consideration.
At Lakeland Electric, we know that electric service is important to all our customers. For those individuals with a medical condition that requires the use of life-sustaining equipment, reliable power is a vital necessity. That's why we've established the Medically Essential Service Program to provide special consideration for their accounts. *Lakeland Electric voluntarily complies with Section 366.15, Florida statutes.
What Does The Medically Essential Service Program Provide?
This program is designed to provide Lakeland Electric customers with reasonable prior notice of power interruption due to scheduled service maintenance which in turn, will allow them time to secure back-up power for their medical equipment.
To help customers manage their utility expenses, this program also provides information on energy efficiency and a list of social service agencies.
What Services Are Not Offered By The Medically Essential Service Program?
In the event of emergency power failures due to natural causes or unforeseen system problems, the program cannot provide prior notification. In these situations, it is the customer's responsibility to have a power back-up system for their medical equipment, as well as an action plan for proceeding to the nearest medical facility.
In addition, the program does not exempt customers from service disconnection if they do not keep payment arrangements, or if they fail to provide information or re-validate their participation in the program, when requested by Lakeland Electric.
How Do Customers Qualify For The Medically Essential Service Program?
If you are a Lakeland Electric customer whose life-sustaining equipment is dependent on electrical service, you can qualify for your program. Here's How:
- First, you must obtain verification from your physician regarding your medical condition, type of equipment and length of time the equipment is needed. Examples of qualifying equipment include: oxygen concentrator, heart monitor, controlled medication, and controlled atmosphere. We will ask that your physician fill out a validation form. Information on receiving a form can be obtained via e-mail or call 863-834-1555.
- Once the completed form is received and reviewed for eligibility, you will be able to participate in the program within 48 hours. Lakeland Electric will maintain a record of your power needs, and your account will be identified by a white seal with a red medical symbol on your electric meter.
- Each year, Lakeland Electric will send a validation form to you, requesting current medial status to ensure that our records are current and that the Medically Essential service is still required.
- When you no longer require life-sustaining equipment, simply call Lakeland Electric at 863-834-1555 - and we will remove your account from the program.