Navigating health insurance in the U.S. can be very confusing. Even today, while we’re living within the golden age of health insurance in our country, millions of people still don’t have coverage. There are several changes that can be made to ensure that health insurance can be even more affordable and accessible for all.
Those who have health insurance are able to take advantage of the fact that insurance is there to help you and your family when you need it most, but did you know that there are other ways to make the most of your health insurance and get the most out of your benefits?
Here are some tips on how to best utilize your health insurance.
1. Get Familiar With Your Policy
Every insurance plan is different, so make sure you are familiar with your policy and what it covers. It’s important to know what your policy covers, as well as any exclusions or limitations. This will help you understand what benefits you are entitled to and how to make the most of them.
Be sure to review the “Summary of Benefits” provided to you by your insurance company and if you have any questions, call the company and have someone in the member services department explain it to you.
In addition, plans backed by the Affordable Care Act/Obamacare mandate MUST provide a variety of services that are often underutilized by the general public, such as mental health services, wellness care, outpatient care and other services. In addition, ACA-backed plans must provide preventative care, which we’ll discuss further below.
Find The Right Provider For You
Healthcare providers can be primary care doctors, specialists, hospitals or more. Essentially, it’s any person or place that provides you with healthcare.
If you don’t currently have a provider or your provider isn’t a part of your new insurance, be sure to check your plan provider network to see the list of providers that they work with.
This information is usually available on the insurance company’s website or you can contact the insurance company’s member services to describe what you are looking for and let them point you in the right direction.
Think about what you really need from a provider. It’s your right to see a provider who makes you comfortable and remember, you can request another provider if you don’t think they are the best fit.
3. Preventative Care is Key
Many health insurance policies are required to cover preventive care in your plan. This means that even if you haven’t met your annual deductible, you can still receive preventive care services for free.
Preventive care services include annual checkups, screenings, vaccinations, and even counseling to stop smoking.
Take advantage of these benefits to help keep yourself and your family healthy.
4. Discounts, Discounts, Discounts
Many health insurance plans offer discounts on fitness memberships, healthy food choices, and other wellness-related activities. These discounts can help you save money and improve your overall health.
Take Advantage of them!
5. Use Online Tools and Resources
Most health insurance companies offer online tools and resources that can help you manage your health, find providers, and make the most of your benefits.
Utilizing these resources can help you get the most out of your health insurance and save you time, and money.
6. Know When To Use Your Health Coverage
It’s important to know when to use your health insurance and when to pay cash.
There are times when it may be more cost-effective to pay for a service out-of-pocket rather than using your health insurance.
However, if you have a serious or complex medical issue, it’s important to use your health insurance so that you can get the care you need.
Don’t Have Health Insurance? Here’s How to Get Covered.
Following these tips can help you make the most of your health insurance and get the most out of your benefits. If you have any questions about your policy or how to best utilize your health insurance, contact your insurer for more information.
The team at HealthPlanOptionsToday is here to help everyone get the best health insurance prices for their unique situations and needs. We can’t wait to help you as well! Click the button below and we’ll contact you, or call our hotline at 855-218-3447 for instant help.