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Often, employees enroll in medical insurance plans for protection against unpredictable events, sudden illness or serious health concerns that may result in expensive medical bills. Getting the most from your benefits requires understanding coverages and deductibles, as well as taking advantage of voluntary benefits, like dental, vision and hearing, to stay healthy and save money.
Avoid surprises.
About 91 percent of adults in the
United States are confused about what their benefits cover, according to
a recent Harris poll. The best starting point is to review your plan so
you understand the care and services covered. If you have a
high-deductible plan, you will need to pay for most or a percentage of
the health costs until reaching the individual or family deductible. Be
prepared to pay any copayments or deductibles the plan requires before
receiving care. Also, before scheduling appointments, ask for a cost
estimate for the appointment, tests or service.
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Preventive dental and vision.
Many voluntary plans,
such as dental and vision, offer preventive exams, such as routine
cleanings and vision exams, that are fully covered. That’s because these
preventive exams help to maintain and improve overall health and help
reduce health costs. Voluntary coverage is affordable and many plans
offer added incentives. For example, coverage for LASIK, dental, vision
and hearing benefits can increase from one year to the next for those
who continue to enroll and use their benefits. Members could earn
monetary rewards to use for dental, vision, LASIK, orthodontia and
hearing benefits, care materials and services simply by using their
benefits and keeping the benefits paid out under a specified amount.
Medical screenings.
Routine health screenings, such
as mammograms, immunizations, colonoscopy procedures and prostate cancer
screenings, which may be covered fully or in part by your medical
coverage, can help you stay healthy and lower health care costs.
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Get paid to save.
Many employers encourage employees
to save money by matching a percentage of the amount the employee
contributes to the plan. If available, enroll in a Health Savings
Account or Flexible Spending Account to set aside money to pay for
health care costs.
Remember that these accounts are not a substitute for the coverage provided by voluntary benefits.
Remember that these accounts are not a substitute for the coverage provided by voluntary benefits.
Learn more about the questions to ask when reviewing benefit plans at ameritasinsight.com.
