“We’re sorry; you’re not covered for this condition.” This is the last thing you want to hear from your insurer when you’re stuck with a hefty medical bill. Fortunately, the situation is preventable, along with many others that prevent policyholders from enjoying maximum health plan benefits. So, how do you ensure that your policy can provide the much-needed financial support when you’re in a medical emergency? The first step is learning how to choose healthcare plans that are right for you and your family.
Here are a few practical tips to help you get the right health insurance policy.
1. Choose the Right Plan
Your plan must be suitable for your family to provide maximum financial protection. It is important that you regularly review your plan because your healthcare needs can change. Then, make any necessary coverage adjustments before renewing. Consider things like a medical procedure you or a family member is scheduled to have or a recent chronic illness diagnosis. Pick a plan that covers those things adequately.
2. Read and Understand the Fine Print
Carefully review the documents that come with your health plan. These provide important information on what’s covered or excluded. They talk about provider rules, such as what happens if you’re treated at an out-of-network facility. You can get quality care at affordable rates when you understand and follow the rules.
3. Consult Over Large Medical Bills
Certain medical services or procedures, such as emergency room care or surgery, are generally expensive. Sometimes, bills for these services can be erroneously too high. In such a scenario, consider enlisting a medical billing advocate for help reviewing the bill. The expert will not charge you if the bill is accurate. However, if they spot errors or questionable items on the bill, they can help resolve those for a third or 50 percent of the money saved. You could save thousands of dollars this way. For help finding a reputable medical billing lawyer, consult your insurer.
4. Leverage In-Network Practitioners
Carriers usually have contracts with specific healthcare providers and doctors to offer services at lower rates. You can save a lot by sticking with these in-network practitioners and facilities. Ensure that doctors treating your children are within your health insurer’s network. Also, any medical specialist treating you or your family should be affiliated with in-network hospitals.
5. After You Max out Your Deductible, Take Full Advantage of Your Health Benefits
Your coverage kicks in once your healthcare expenses for the year surpass your deductible amount. Your insurer will be paying a bigger portion of your medical bills from then on. This would be an excellent time to have medical exams covered by your health plan. Moreover, your out-of-pocket healthcare expenses will be substantially reduced.
6. Save with Mail-Order Medications
You can reduce your prescription drug costs by having your 90-day supplies delivered by mail order. Consider taking advantage of this if you’re on long-term medication. With a mail-order program supported by your health plan, your carrier can buy medication in bulk to lower costs. This delivery model helps you save on dispensing fees, and it’s relatively convenient.
7. Leverage Discounts and Special Coverage Perks
Choosing the right insurance plan to save on money and maximize coverage requires a pragmatic assessment of special offers and programs. Be sure to seek out extra perks and benefits such as:
- Discounts on fitness programs
- Offers for specific medical conditions
- Medication and health record tracking apps
Consider these health insurance tips to get the best coverage and protect your savings. To learn more about getting cost-effective health plans, contact us at Hoffman Brown Company today. We can help you find the right coverage for your unique needs.
