Have you had your Health Mid Year Check In with Cigna

Ever since I got married, I have been the one who carried health insurance for the family.  I remember sitting with the health coverage form in front of me going – “What plan do I need”  Not only were there Family vs Single options. There were also different packages – with different deductibles. Both of us being young and healthy, we didn’t think we needed the lower deductible. And once yearly, we were able to re-evaluate the plans and renew our contracts.  This year has been a HUGE year for needing Health coverage.  We have had many un-expected Dr Visits and Medical Concerns this year – compared to years in the past.  All which I have been thankful that myself and my ex had coverage for.

There are so many health insurance companies on the market.  There’s HAP, BCBS, BCN, Medicare, Medicaid and Many more.  Personally I have Cigna and I have enjoyed every part of their program.    But there are a few things you should do when it comes to your Medical Coverage.

Plan:  I know that you can never plan on EVERYTHING happening in advance. But one of the suggestions that Is recommended is to Sit down at the beginning of the year and Plan out what Medical Expenses that you may think you’ll have through out the year.  Many of us know that we will have Specific doctor Appointments and prescriptions.  Some of us know in advance that we may need a Large procedure preformed – and Plan those months in advance.  Some of the easiest ones to plan for are pregnancies and Vision needs (ie: Glasses or Contacts).  If you know you are going to have a large doctor visit coming up, you can always plan on putting X amount of dollars aside to cover your appointment.  And for those that are unexpected – know your deductible and coverage is defiantly highly recommended.
Prepare:  As women and moms, we are always Preparing for everything.  I know every year when I renew my insurance coverage with work, I take a few moments to go online and make sure I know what Extras are offered for me.  There are many plans out there that my insurance offers – free for us – like Weight Control and also for those to try and quit smoking.  One tip that was recomended in the Cigna Health Plan Conversation was to put your pharmacy’s phone number in your Phone.  I would have never thought to do that – but it makes COMPLETE sense.  If you are at the Dr’s office, and you are in need of a prescription being filled – many offices will call in a prescription for you – that way all you have to do is drive there to pick it up. And how helpful is that when you’re NOT feeling good.  It saves you from having to sit in the pharmacy to wait for the medications that will make you feel better.
Prevent – Please take a moment to make sure you make visit the Doctor Anually.  Taking advantage of preventative services offered by your health plan could mean the difference between life and early death. I know with my particular coverage, my son gets all his Preventative Exams 100% covered  – with no out of pocket costs for myself.  And that means a LOT to myself – being a mom.  I love knowing that my insurance company cares enough to make sure we have all the preventative resources there to help prevent any unnecessary costs in the future.

If non the less make sure to check out Cigna’s You Tube Page.  There are a couple great short videos titled “The Health Plan Conversation”.  There you will find a few more great tips on how to get the most from your insurance.

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.