Henry Schein broadens support in wake of Sandy

Henry Schein is broadening support for its customers affected by Superstorm Sandy.

In addition to the company's disaster relief hotline, it is offering a host of financial services to affected customers and plans to stage a series of expert-led symposia examining all aspects of practice recovery, the company announced.

The Long Island, NY-based company also sustained storm damage.

The company is offering extended credit terms on merchandise and small equipment purchases; extended credit terms on existing balances; selected healthcare equipment availability for short-term usage; and other extended, no payment options for required capital equipment purchases to get practices back into operation.

The company is also providing licensing assistance and other guidance to healthcare practitioners who wish to practice out of state or relocate. Customers with existing leases will have grace periods on existing loans booked through Henry Schein financial services, and loan deferrals and/or restructuring may be available to customers.

Also, plans are under way for a series of customer symposium held in conjunction with leading healthcare professional associations and featuring experts offering advice on a number of topics, including the following:

• Coping with the impact of Superstorm Sandy and managing the unknown that lies ahead
• Licensing, insurance recovery, human resources, cash flow, credit lines, and other pressing issues
• Preparing insurance claims (physical damage and business interruption)
• Loss accounting for insurance and tax-related considerations
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance and other governmental support mechanisms
• Solving cash-flow and capital funding challenges

Symposia details are still being finalized; times and locations and featured speakers will be announced soon.

The Henry Schein disaster relief hotline remains open for dentists, physicians, and veterinarians who experience operational, logistical, or financial issues as a result of Superstorm Sandy. The toll-free number for all Henry Schein customers, 800-999-9729, is available 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST.