Medical Necessity & Electric Service

    At Steuben Rural Electric Cooperative (SREC), we understand that reliable electric service is important to all of our members. For some members, electricity is essential to sustaining life due to the use of electric-powered medical equipment such as oxygen concentrators, neutralizers, dialysis machines, or other life-support devices. In some households, residents may be permanently dependent on this type of equipment.
    While SREC works hard to provide safe and dependable electric service, certain conditions beyond our control may result in power outages. For this reason, uninterrupted electric service cannot be guaranteed at all times. Members who rely on electricity for medical needs should be aware of how SREC manages these situations and take steps to prepare in advance.
     Members who use life-sustaining medical equipment are encouraged to designate their account as Medical Necessity. When this designation is on file and circumstances permit, SREC will make every reasonable effort to notify members by telephone prior to planned outages for repairs or system improvements and to provide information regarding the expected duration of the outage. When possible, this information may also be used to assist with prioritizing outage restoration. However, Medical Necessity designation does not guarantee continuous service or immediate restoration during an outage.
    Because electric service interruptions may occur, it is critical for members who depend on medical equipment to have a personal backup plan in place. This may include having backup batteries or oxygen tanks available, using an uninterruptible power supply, operating a standby or portable generator, or temporarily relocating to a location with electricity during extended outages. Members are encouraged to discuss their specific needs with their physician and follow the medical equipment manufacturer’s recommendations. In the event of a medical emergency, always call 911.
   SREC makes every effort to contact members prior to planned outages or disconnections for nonpayment. To help ensure timely communication, members are encouraged to keep their phone number and email address up to date through SmartHub or by contacting the Cooperative directly at (607) 776-4161 or (800) 843-3414.
   In accordance with 21 CRR-NY 459, SREC is not permitted to disconnect electric service for nonpayment when we know, or reasonably should know, that discontinuance could result in impairment to human health. Members who rely on medical or life-support equipment must complete a Medical Necessity application so the Cooperative is aware of these conditions. In certain cases, accounts may be referred to the local social services commissioner for review, as required by regulation.
    Medical Necessity certifications may be required to be updated annually. Failure to provide updated documentation may affect a member’s designation. As referenced in 21 CRR-NY 459.10, the Cooperative is not liable for a member’s failure to furnish required information.
    Members who believe they qualify for Medical Necessity designation may request an application by calling SREC at (607) 776-4161 or (800) 843-3414 or by downloading the form from our website at https://www.steubenrec.coop/medical-necessity-information. Your safety is important to us, and we encourage all members who rely on electric-powered medical equipment to plan ahead and ensure proper documentation is on file.