If you’re a regular reader then you probably know that I have two boys, one of whom has Down syndrome. Over the years we’ve seen a good number of doctors – not just pediatricians, but also specialties including pediatric cardiologist, pediatric endocrinologist, pediatric orthopedic, pediatric opthamologist, pediatric urologist, pediatric audiologist, pediatric surgeon, and probably a few others that have slipped my mind. We’ve taken a couple of ambulance rides and we’ve been to about ten different hospitals. As you may know, each time you visit a different specialist you might need something before seeing that specialist in order for your insurance to cover it. For some it’s a written prescription. For others it’s a referral. For others still it’s a pre-certification. Some need documentation. Knowing what’s needed is like second nature to me, but that isn’t the case for everyone. Why does it matter? Because if you don’t have what you need, the visit may not be covered in entirety, or possibly at all. That’s scary. That’s why there is one thing I urge everyone to do, from my experience as a parent, occasional patient, and as a former medical biller. KNOW YOUR INSURANCE.
The folks at Cigna, one of the few insurance companies in our area that we haven’t had, put together a brief video that encourages people to do the same thing. They also make some other excellent suggestions.
The suggestion about the deductible and planning? Dead.On.Accurate. Having had plans with a deductible I can’t urge you strongly enough to plan things and time things for your own benefit. There are certain healthcare expenses that you can plan for. Do so. Furthermore, always know how much your deductible is, what counts towards your deductible, and how much you’ve spent towards it.
I have seen a couple of doctors over the years that didn’t give reminder phone calls or send reminder postcards. The idea of scheduling something around a particular event is a good one, so you’ll be sure to remember it even if you don’t get a reminder from the doctor about it.
Here are a few more tips from Cigna that I think are worth sharing with you.
PLAN. We’re often great at budgeting household expenses like our mortgage, groceries or vacations, but many of us don’t think about budgeting for healthcare expenses. The more you can anticipate upcoming costs, the more you can save while still receiving the high quality care you expect for you and your family.
- Spend one night reviewing your healthcare expenses. Know what you have spent to-date and think about what your future costs may be. For example, will anyone need glasses or braces next year? Knowing what your current spending habits are and what your future costs may be, can help you budget accordingly.
PREPARE. There are a few things that you can do now to ensure you’re prepared to make quick decisions when the time is appropriate.
- Know where the nearest urgent care facility is. These facilities provide the same quality of care for non-emergent conditions as an ER, but have shorter wait times and are typically less expensive.
- Check your health plan to see if they offer a 24/7 nurse hotline to provide you with health-related advice around the clock.
- Keep the phone number handy for your local pharmacy. Prescriptions can be called in quickly, right from the doctor’s office, saving time.
PREVENT. Taking advantage of preventative services offered by your health plan could mean the difference between life and early death.
- Visit your doctor each year for a checkup – make the appointment on a memorable day so you remember each year to go! Also, take advantage of the free services offered, such as access to dieticians and nurses, who can answer questions and provide advice.
Healthcare and insurance is important. There are many things to talk about. Join the conversation at YouTube.com/Cigna. You’ll be glad you did.
I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting on behalf of Cigna. I received a promotional item as a thank-you for participating. As always, my opinions are my own.
Regarding my insurances, my dentist actually gave me a compliment when he said I am the only patient he has who plans her dental work according to her plan’s term, maximums, and deductibles. Regarding my rx’s, I inow the out of pocket maxes and factor them in (many, many rx’s) when I decide mail order vs my private pharmacy which gives better, more accomodating, more knowledgeable service than the big insurance tied companies.