Healthcare Countdown to the New Year
As the end of the deductible year approaches, make sure that you maximize the benefits of your 2018 health insurance plan. Now is the time to make money-saving decisions because most deductibles reset on January 1. Deductibles reset to $0 at the beginning of each calendar year. A deductible is an amount you are responsible for before the insurance company starts paying your healthcare bills. Are you close or have you exceeded your deductible? If so, take advantage of all healthcare needs before the deductible resets. Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is a health insurance plan funded with pre-tax dollars. Funds in an FSA account do not roll over to the near year. There is a “use it or lose it” penalty. Check restrictions in your FSA and acceptable uses for FSA funds. Plan Changes can affect your benefits for next year. Do not leave any critical benefits unused this year in hopes that they will increase in 2019. That probably won’t happen. This may be an ideal time to access healthcare services. Your deductible is paid in full. You have unused FSA funds. You have been postponing treatment for a chronic orthopedic condition or nagging injury. Ideally, schedule an appointment at DOC today, so there is enough time to have the necessary tests and procedures completed before the end of 2018. Orthopedic procedures to consider before deductible year-end may include:
- Diagnostic testing
- Cortisone injections
- Outpatient surgery, such as tendon, muscle, meniscus, and joint repairs
- Surgery, including joint replacement
- Prescription refills
Use all of the healthcare benefits available to you before December 31. With the New Year comes a new deductible. Note: Every health plan is different. It is important to understand your plan so you can get the most from your benefits.
For more information on the cost of care, click here.
