Just like budgeting household expenses its important to budget and plan for health care expenses. Health care is often an overlooked expense and can crop up unexpectedly, especially in urgent care situations. However, performing a health care audit can help you plan for known expenses and help you be knowledgable about what your health care may cover in case of an emergency. I know that reviewing your health care plan can be a daunting task, but knowledge is power and will help you make confident, informed decisions.

Performing a mid-year health care check-in can be completed in three easy steps.

PLAN

Set aside a couple hours to review your health care expenses to date and consider what you will spend the rest of the year. Does someone need braces, glasses, surgery? Consider these when performing your health care check-in. Also, look at your deductibles and see if you have met/exceeded them for the year so you can plan future medical bills.

PREPARE

Have the number to urgent care near your phone. Urgent cares often have extended hours yet are cheaper and easier to utilize then the ER if there isn’t a life threatening situation. Also, see if your insurance offers a 24/7 nurse hotline to have medical questions answered.

PREVENT

Be sure to take advantage of preventative services like yearly check ups, dental cleanings and eye exams. These services are usually fully covered by insurance, BUT each plan is different so you’ll want to confirm with your insurance company. Preventative health care helps keep you healthy.

This is a great video that talks about the importance of preventative health care:

Consider setting aside a couple hours this weekend to perform a health care audit.

disclaimer: 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.

Cheers,