Important questions to ask to maximize health care coverage

2020-11-16T00:01:00

(BPT) - Are you comparing health insurance to make sure you're getting the best coverage for your money? Maybe you already have a health care plan but aren't sure if you're using all the benefits available to you? Exploring all coverage options can help you lower your costs.

It's important to be proactive and ask questions to your health insurance provider or a licensed agent to explore opportunities to save money while staying as healthy as possible. To help guide your conversation, ask these important questions to help you maximize your health care plan benefits:

What services are covered at 100% without having to meet a deductible?

In addition to the monthly premium you may pay for health coverage, you often have to meet a deductible before coverage kicks in. For example, if you have a $500 deductible, you'll need to pay that much out of pocket before you are covered and your plan begins to pay its share. However, many plans have exceptions to this rule, so you should ask what is covered immediately.

For example, most health plans must cover a set of preventative services at no cost to you. For example, this might cover an annual physical and wellness checkup as well as certain immunizations. Keep in mind, you will likely have to use in-network providers in order to take advantage of this no-cost coverage, so verify before making an appointment.

Do I qualify for additional coverage at no cost?

Your personal situation may qualify you for additional coverage, but you need to ask about your options to take advantage of these opportunities. For example, people receiving financial assistance, or on Medicaid that also qualify for Medicare benefits, may be able to enroll in a UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete® plan — a type of Dual Special Needs Plan — that offers additional benefits and features. Depending on where you live, benefits can include dental, hearing and vision coverage; and can even include credits to buy healthy food! Learn more at www.GetDual.com.

With a UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete plan, you may also receive transportation to health care appointments and financial assistance to help purchase approved health items. You will also have someone to help you manage and coordinate care. All of these additional benefits may be available at no additional cost. However, according to the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), 80% of people eligible for a Dual Special Needs Plan are not enrolled in one, so make sure to ask your health insurance provider or a licensed agent, or check the website to determine your eligibility.

Are there programs I can participate in to help lower my costs?

Many health plans offer additional optional programs that may help lower your premium costs and save you money. Make sure to ask about programs that may include discounts at the grocery store, rewards for hitting health goals such as taking a certain number of steps, or reimbursements for health club costs based on monthly use.

It’s important to have the right kind of health coverage for your needs, and to save as much money as possible. Asking these questions will help guide your conversation with your insurance provider so that you can make the most of your coverage while saving money.

[UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract and a contract with the State Medicaid Program. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. Benefits, features and/or devices vary by plan/area. Limitations and exclusions apply. ©2020 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All rights reserved.][Y0066_201002_051745_M]
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