Essential Tips to Unlock the Full Potential of Your Health Benefits

by Natalie Stefan

Maximize Your Health Benefits with These Smart Tips

Healthcare costs can add up quickly, and while comprehensive plans often come with a hefty price tag, they might not always cover the things you truly need. At Health Plans America, we’re committed to helping you make the right choices for both your health and your budget. To help you get the most out of your coverage, we’ve put together a few valuable tips to maximize your health benefits:

  1. Schedule Non-Emergency Procedures Early
    Plan non-urgent procedures early in the year to help you meet your deductible and maximize your coverage.
  2. Audit Your Medical Bills for Errors
    Mistakes happen, but they shouldn’t come at your expense. Regularly review your medical bills to ensure there are no errors that could impact your finances.
  3. Maximize Tax Savings with a Health Savings Account (HSA)
    Consider using an HSA to save on taxes. The money you contribute to an HSA is pre-tax, which can make a significant difference come tax season.
  4. Shop Around Before Enrolling
    Health insurance laws change regularly. Always shop around to ensure the plan you’re enrolling in provides the coverage you need at the best price.
  5. Save Money on Prescription Drugs
    Reach out to your insurance provider to understand exactly what prescription drugs are covered. If you’re facing high out-of-pocket costs, consider exploring other options.

Understanding your health insurance options is key to making informed decisions about your coverage. With Health Plans America, finding the right plan for you is simple and hassle-free. Connect with a licensed insurance agent today to discover a healthcare plan that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Have Prescription Glasses? See If You Qualify for Coverage

by Natalie Stefan

If you wear prescription glasses and they’re considered “medically necessary,” you may be eligible for coverage through certain insurance plans. For instance, if you require prescription glasses after cataract surgery, this may qualify as medically necessary care. However, it’s important to note that Original Medicare Parts A and B typically don’t cover most prescription glasses, contact lenses, or other eyewear. Understanding the distinction between what’s covered and what’s not is essential to ensuring you get the coverage you need.

If your prescription glasses aren’t considered a medical necessity, Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may still offer coverage for eyeglasses, contact lenses, and prescription sunglasses. The specific benefits and costs can vary by plan, so it’s important to discuss the details with your provider. Many plans also include coverage for routine eye exams, which could be an added benefit for your eye care needs.

Four Key Things Medicare Doesn’t Cover That You Need to Know

by Natalie Stefan

4 Important Medicare Gaps You Need to Know About

While many people are familiar with the coverage Medicare provides, it’s equally important to understand what it doesn’t cover. Here are four key areas where Medicare falls short:

  1. Prescription Drugs: Original Medicare doesn’t include prescription drug coverage. However, you can add this coverage through Medicare Part D or choose a Medicare Advantage plan, which bundles both medical and drug coverage.
  2. Long-Term Care: Medicare covers certain nursing services but doesn’t provide for custodial care, such as assistance with daily activities like bathing and dressing. For this type of care, long-term care insurance is your best option.
  3. Deductibles and Copays: Even with Medicare Part A and Part B covering some hospital stays and doctor visits, you’ll still be responsible for deductibles and copayments. Medicare Advantage plans, offered by private insurers, can help fill in these gaps.
  4. Dental Care: Routine dental services, such as checkups, cleanings, fillings, dentures, and extractions, aren’t covered by Medicare. Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer limited dental coverage, such as basic cleanings and X-rays, but often with coverage caps.

If you’re unsure about your Medicare options or need assistance navigating these gaps, a Health Plans of America insurance professional can guide you through the process and help you find the right coverage. Reach out today!

Five Ways to Protect Against Medicare Scammers

by Natalie Stefan

In today’s world, where technology is everywhere, it can be difficult to tell if you’re falling victim to a scam. When it comes to your health, however, scams and fraud can have a serious impact on your peace of mind and overall well-being.

As we begin the New Year, here are some simple yet effective steps you can take to protect yourself from Medicare scams:

Stay Alert for Suspicious Activity
Be vigilant and trust your instincts. If something feels off, take a moment to assess the situation. Scammers often rely on pressure and urgency, so don’t hesitate to pause and question their motives.

Ask Questions and Seek Trusted Advice
If you’re ever uncertain, ask questions. Whether it’s about a phone call, email, or in-person interaction, probing deeper can help expose scammers. Consult with a trusted friend, family member, or advisor to get a second opinion.

Review Your Statements Regularly
Keep an eye on your Medicare Explanation of Benefits (EOB) and monthly statements. Regularly reviewing these documents ensures you catch any discrepancies or fraudulent activity early on.

Consult Your Doctor, Not Strangers
Scammers may try to convince you that they have your best interests at heart. However, your primary care doctor is the true expert when it comes to your health and care options. Always rely on them for medical advice.

Report Suspicious Activity
If you suspect you’ve encountered a scam, report it. Chances are, you’re not the only one. By reporting the issue, you help protect yourself and others in your community from potential fraud.

With so much information out there, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. That’s where Health Plans of America can help. They provide the resources and guidance you need to make informed decisions with confidence.

health insurance

Top Three Tips to Know about Your Health Insurance Coverage

by Natalie Stefan

health insurance

Are you confident that you’re maximizing the value of your health care coverage? With the amount of money you invest in insurance, it’s crucial to ensure you’re getting the care and benefits you deserve. At Health Plan Market, we understand how important it is to make the most of your plan. That’s why we’ve put together three essential tips to help you navigate your health coverage:

1. Understand Your Benefits
Make sure you’re fully aware of all the services included in your plan. Don’t forget to check what should be covered by your insurance so you can avoid paying for unnecessary services that are already part of your coverage.

2. Choose an In-Network Physician
Visiting out-of-network doctors can lead to higher costs for your medical services. By sticking with in-network providers, you can significantly reduce your expenses and get the care you need at a more affordable rate.

3. Meet Your Deductible Before Scheduling Doctor Visits
Once you’ve met your deductible, your insurance will cover any additional medical expenses. You may still need to pay a co-payment, but that’s far less than paying full price for your services.

4. Take Advantage of Discounts and Special Programs
Many health insurers partner with fitness centers to offer discounted memberships. You might also have access to exclusive health apps or online portals designed to support your fitness goals.

In today’s world, where health insurance is essential, making the most of your benefits is key. The more you understand your options, the better you can manage your health care costs. Reach out to a licensed professional at Health Plan Market today and discover how you can start saving!

Understand the Essentials of Health Insurance

by Natalie Stefan

Health insurance can be a complex topic, and while many people recognize its importance, few truly understand how it works. At Health Plans of America, we aim to simplify the process and help you better grasp the basics of health insurance.

First, it’s essential to know that depending on the type of health insurance you have, costs are handled in different ways. The insured may pay out-of-pocket, receive reimbursement, or the insurer may directly pay the healthcare provider.

There are two primary categories of health insurance: private and public (government-funded).

  • Private Insurance: This is the most common form of health insurance, typically offered through employers or purchased individually.
  • Public (Government) Insurance: These plans are funded by federal, state, or local governments to provide coverage for those who qualify.

Within these categories, there are various organizations that manage medical care for the insured. Two common types are:

  • Health Maintenance Organization (HMO): This plan often offers the most affordable coverage. It requires you to visit a primary care physician for referrals and utilizes negotiated fees with providers to keep costs low.
  • Preferred Provider Organization (PPO): This plan offers greater flexibility, allowing you to visit any doctor you choose without needing a referral. It still uses negotiated rates with providers but offers more freedom in choosing healthcare professionals.

If your employer or union offers health insurance, that can be an excellent option. However, many individuals remain uninsured.

Whether you’re purchasing health insurance for the first time or switching plans, Health Plans of America is here to help. We provide the tools and resources to make the insurance process easy and stress-free.