New Health Insurance Plan? Maximize Your Benefits
Julie Bitely
| 3 min read
If you’ve recently switched insurance providers or are navigating health care benefits for the first time, you might be feeling overwhelmed. This new plan checklist will help you get the most out of your benefits, so you can be your healthiest.
Get registered and get the app
If you’re new to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, there’s a lot of helpful information you can access as a member to better understand your plan. Visit bcbsm.com and register to create an account. If you’re on the go or prefer the convenience of an app, we’ve got you covered. No matter where you access your account, you’ll be able to quickly see your benefit details, plan balances, claims information and more.
Learn the lingo
Do you know the difference between a copayment and coinsurance? What about deductibles and premiums? If those terms aren’t ringing a bell or you could use a refresher, refer to this helpful guide. Understanding the language used will help you more confidently navigate your plan and benefits.
Understand cost-sharing
The portion of care you pay for is determined by your specific plan and is referred to as cost-sharing. Deductibles, coinsurance and copays are all examples of cost-sharing. Read up on different parts of your plan that factor into your bill such as choosing in-network health care providers when possible to keep your costs lower. When you’re logged into your account online or on the app, click on “My Coverage” for a more comprehensive look at your plan breakdown when it comes to cost-sharing.
Choose the best place for care
In an emergency, you know to go to the emergency room, but where should you go for other medical concerns? It can be a tough call to make, but where you go can make a difference when you get the bill. Ideally, you’d be able to visit your primary care doctor, but if their office is closed, you do have other choices. Get to know your options so you can be a savvy health care consumer. If you don’t have a primary care doctor, you’re going to want to find one. Make sure their office accepts your insurance when making your selection.
Make prevention a priority
Did you know that many preventive services and wellness visits are paid at 100%? Taking charge of your health through preventive visits with your primary care doctor can help you catch things earlier and give you the motivation you need to make changes to improve your health. Other essential benefits guaranteed by the Affordable Care Act will be paid for after your deductible is met and depending on your plan, you could still be responsible for paying a copay and coinsurance.
Manage the details
Taking care of your health is the big-picture goal, but what about the details? Don’t let questions about payments or coverage slow you down. We’ve got answers to many frequently asked questions and we’re always just a phone call away (find the number for your plan on the back of your Blue Cross ID card). Can’t find it? Tap on ID Card in the app and flip to the back side. If you found this post helpful, read these:
- Primary Care: More Than Just a Doctor
- 5 Advantages of Using Blue Cross Online Visits
- 5 Things You Need to Know if You're Newly Insured
Photo credit: Deagreez
