Take Advantage of Health Insurance Before it Runs out
Lack of health insurance keeps many people from seeking medical treatment. The rising cost of health care affects those with illnesses as well as injuries. If your health insurance coverage is about to end, it’s important to take advantage of all the benefits your policy has to offer. Use your time wisely to ensure you receive maximum amount of care for your dollar.
Instructions
1. Start planning early. Use a calendar to track when your health insurance coverage ends. Schedule yearly events like mammograms and eye testing well before the cut off date. Arrange special appointments to discuss new health developments. Since it can take several weeks before some appointment times are available, it’s to your advantage to start early. This will allow you the best chance of arranging and attending all of your appointments before your health insurance runs out.
2. Read the fine print. Open your health insurance policy manual to see what events and procedures are covered. You may be surprised at the benefits you never knew you had. For example, some health insurance policies offer free physicals or immunizations. Use this information to assist in scheduling your appointments. Be sure to meet all filing deadlines to expedite the payment and reimbursement process.
3. Receive current prescriptions. Ask your doctor to write new prescriptions with the maximum number of refills allowed. Fill the prescriptions and refills before your health insurance runs out to take advantage of product discounts. This will ensure you have some medication to take after your insurance coverage has ended.
4. Consult the advice of specialists. Ask your doctor for referrals to specialists to discuss pressing health issues. Receive diagnostic tests such as x-rays and bone scans while your insurance policy is still valid. If no doctor’s referral is necessary, schedule these appointments on your own. Bring a list of questions and ensure you have complete answers before leaving these important appointments.
5. Take advantage of program incentives. Contact your health insurance carrier to ask about special programs available to members. For example, some carriers offer prizes for enrolling in weight loss programs or smoking cessation classes. Complete all special offers before your coverage ends.
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