Save By Being A Wise Health Care Consumer

Medical Care

Close up of hand using a tablet.

*  Before you receive services, know what your plan covers. Find out from your insurance plan’s website handbook, or customer service representative.

*  Find out if the cost for 9-1-1 EMS transport is covered or if you need to use a certain ambulance company.

*  Choose providers who accept your insurance. Find out if prior approval or a referral is needed for services to be covered.

*  Consider a Consumer Driven Health Plan. You pay a higher deductible and pay for health care costs from a tax-exempt health account. With a high-deductible health plan, you can set aside pre-tax money in a health savings account (HSA). Use this to pay for your deductible and medical costs. Money you don’t spend adds up from year to year, to use for future medical expenses.

*  Learn if acupuncture and massage therapy fees are covered.

*  Get recommended tests, exams, and vaccines.

*  Make sure you use covered services, such as dental cleanings, tests and exams, virtual visits, and the Nurse Advice Line.

*  Find out about tax breaks for medical expenses fromirs.gov.

*  Stay informed of changes in health care offerings on national and state levels.

A Year of Health Hints book by the American Institute for Preventive Medicine. www.HealthyLife.com. All rights reserved.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine