How to Use Your Medical Benefits

Many people who have health insurance don't even use it. Sometimes I wonder why? Are those people just super healthy and don't think they need to go to the doctor for a check-up? Do they just not understand how it works? I tend to think it's a little bit of both.

I have worked in healthcare for many, many years (I got a young start, ok?)

The first thing to find out, by calling your insurance provider, visiting the website, or reviewing your enrollment materials, is there a network of providers you should use? This saves you money two ways:

1. The insurance has negotiated a reduced rate with those providers.
   
2. You usually get a higher benefit when you visit providers who are in the network.
   

These providers may be referred to as par, in-network, participating, to name a few common terms to mean the same thing: they take a cut in their rates in exchange for the insurance company sending you to them. Your insurance may pay, 80% for an in-network provider versus 60% for a non-network provider. Plus, with a non-network doctor you will pay your portion based on the provider's billed charges, not a discount.

Perhaps you don't have medical coverage at all yet. Maybe you DO have medical coverage, but not benefits for dental, vision, chiropractic, prescriptions, etc. These services are just as  important for your overall health and well being. AmeriPlan offers discounts on these services. Subscribe today to find out more.