The H1N1 solution ****

Arunasalam was worried. The H1N1 problem seemed to be getting out of hand. His managers had got an earful at that morning’s management meeting. “I want you to research it and get me the answer. Yesterday.” Arunasalam had screamed. Now he sat, looking out of his office window, out at the city. He could imagine the deadly virus wreaking havoc among the people down there. It was a tragedy like never before. And his company, United Health had to do something about it.

***

Devendran sat at his desk, poring over volumes of literature. He had been doing this for hours, and had developed a splitting headache from reading the fine text. Suddenly he saw it. The words jumped at him. He shook his head, and looked up. For a moment he thought his eyes were playing tricks. Then he looked again. Yes. It was there. He had done it! The H1N1 problem was solved. “I found it,” Devendran shouted.

***

Arunasalam was smiling again. Devendran had found the solution. “Great job, Dev. I thought United will sink with this H1N1. But now we have a way. Issue a circular immediately to all our clients.”

***

UNITED HEALTHCARE ASSURANCE

To all HMOs,

Coverage for Influenza A - H1N1

Greetings from United.

I would like to refer to the numerous medical insurance claims relating directly or indirectly to Influenza A – H1N1. I am pleased to draw your attention to Volume XIV, Chapter 24, Clause 5.4.5.2, sub clause (s), bullet 8 of our agreement.

It is clearly stated in the abovementioned clause that United Healthcare’s coverage does not include for any hospitalization, surgery or charges caused directly or indirectly, wholly or partly for Communicable disease requiring quarantine by law. In this case, Influenza A – H1N1 has been declared by the Government of Malaysia as a communicable disease requiring quarantine by law, vide Circular KKM12/23/09(Jld3) dated 30th Feb 2009.

Thank you.
UNITED HEALTHCARE ASSURANCE

“We strive to meet your needs”

A.R.M.R.Arunasalam
GROUP CEO

***

As Arunasalam was about to sign the circular, he looked again. Inexplicably, the “y” in the tag line was almost invisible.