Looking only at premiums and deductibles
Reducing your initial out-of-pocket premium costs may be exposing yourself to more on the claims end. Read the fine print regarding how the terms of the plan may affect you if you actually get sick. Co-pays, specialists, prescriptions, etc. should be taken into consideration.
Not understanding in-network costs vs. out-of-network costs
Check with your insurance provider before any scheduled procedure to be sure you understand what services and doctors are considered in-network.
Not checking your plan's medication list
It’s critical to confirm that any medications you take are included on your health plan’s list of drugs. You’ll generally find your health plan’s list of covered medications posted on its website. But beware: Those lists aren’t always complete. Here again, call to confirm coverage.
Also be aware that insurers typically require you to jump through a number of hoops in order to have your prescriptions paid for. For example, you may be required to first obtain pre-authorization before filling the prescription.
Not knowing the difference between prevention and intervention
Annual checkups, vaccinations and cancer and other health screenings, in most cases, come with no cost to you at the time of the visit.Often, however, the details of what’s covered and what’s not gets confusing, and many people
get stuck with surprise bills
.When you make an appointment with your doctor ask about the nature and cost of any follow-up visits.
Paying your bills to soon
Once you’ve gone to the doctor or been to the hospital, you can expect a steady stream of bills to follow. You’ll also receive a document from your insurer called an explanation of benefits, or EOB. It shows the service you got, how much your doctor charged and what portion of the bill your insurer paid.
Don't pay anything until you get the EOB.
If you find an error, contact the billing department at either the hospital or medical group where you received services. Consumer assistance programs are available in most states to assist you with billing and other insurance problems. The number should be listed on your EOB statement.
