When it comes to my family we (my hubby and I) really need to make smart decisions and choices when it comes to our health care plan. As open enrollment season comes upon us now is the time to start thinking about what you need in a health care plan. With the holidays almost here…this is the last thing you really want to think about, right? I usually let my hubby handle this stuff as he is the “thinker and analyzer” of the family. But with this post I was intrigued to know what is going on with our health care plan. So, with that said I picked his brain a bit before I wrote this. I have listed five tips that I think can help you during this process, as it helped me understand our health care a bit better.
1: Compare the costs!
When it comes to premiums, deductibles, and co-payments you always need to compare the costs. You usually have a few different coverage options and you owe it to yourself and your family to weigh them all out. Figure out what options you need and which you don’t so you can set a smart plan for your family and save yourself money where you can.
2: Make sure you have the coverage you need!
The worst thing that can happen is you visit a doctor and your visit is covered, but then when you have the surgery you were recommended by that doctor,only to find out that that surgery cost wasn’t covered! This can be very frustrating and cost you a lot of your own money. Make sure you know your coverage from top to bottom. Compare those plans and weigh out the pros and cons. You definitely want the coverage you need…but you don’t want to be paying for things you will never use too.
3: Flexible Spending Accounts!
When it comes to health coverage you have the option of having a flexible spending account. You can use this to your advantage and your families when it comes to saving money on medical. If you fill prescriptions and have other costs associated with your medical coverages this can be a big advantage to you. Take a few minutes and anticipate how much out of pocket money you will be spending on these items, so you make sure you use it to your full advantage and don’t lose on it.
4: Check out the extra benefits your plan has to offer!
From preventative health screening care appointments, to receiving your prescriptions by mail. These items can help lower the costs of your premiums. Take full advantage of these options to help you save extra money in the long run.
5: Always ask questions!
If you have any questions at all reach out to your HR department and ask! If you don’t ask, you will not know the answer or be unsure of your coverage. When you are choosing a plan you want to know 100% what your coverage will be, so there are no surprises along the way. They are there to help you every step of the process and really a great resource.Take 60 minutes and really look over your health coverage. Learn your plan in and out so you know you are getting all the benefits you need. That way you will know what is the best plan and coverage for you and your family. It doesn’t have to be a dreaded thing….analyzing your plan. Make it a priority so you and your family are completely covered.
Be Smart About Your Health gives people the tools and “know-how” to save time and money while making the best health decisions during Open Enrollment and throughout the year.
