January 1 generally ‘resets’ most health insurance plans. This month is a good time to review your health care benefits as there might be services you can be eligible for.
Primary Care Doctor
Seeing your primary care doctor (PCP) at least once a year is a great start point. On an annual checkup, your provider will perform a complete physical exam, work up new and chronic issues, prescribe or renew medications, and draw blood work. Combined, this information can help guide the next steps in your medical journey. If you suffer from idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), it is necessary to keep a good relationship with your PCP as they are also the gatekeeper to connecting you with a specialist through the referral process.
Eye Doctor
Vision benefits are greatly underutilized. You may qualify to see an eye doctor once a year with your healthcare plan. Aside from checking your eyesight, the tools an optometristA trained medical profession who can examine, diagnose, and treat a majority of eye disorders. or ophthalmologistA specialist in the branch of medicine concerned with the study and treatment of disorders and diseases of the eye. uses can identify changes to your optic disc and other findings that can be seen with IIH. Impressively, an eye doctor can be the first provider to diagnose diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and many other systemic diseases.
Dentist
Dental health is just as important as your overall well-being. Most health care coverage allows you to see a dentist twice a year. A dentist can also be the first to detect diabetes, oral cancer, low blood count (anemia), and many other conditions.
Mental Health
Mental health has recently become the forefront of importance to employers. Companies are finally recognizing how essential it is to ensure that the wellbeing of the mind and body are equally important for its employees. In fact, the United States Federal Government mandates that insurance companies help cover costs towards mental health. The pandemic has also created online therapy which has allowed greater access to psychologists and psychiatrists at a reasonable cost.
Physical Health
Some health care coverage also participates in preventative health. This means by staying active and living a healthy lifestyle you can benefit through your healthcare plan from your life choices. For example, you can be reimbursed for gym membership and athletic gear. Another example is being reimbursed for seeing a nutritionist.
Consider a new year’s resolution to take full advantage of your health benefits. It is a great way to become your own healthcare advocate. If you are unsure of the health benefits you are eligible for, contact your human resources department or call the number on your insurance card to be educated and informed.
