Becoming A Savvy Healthcare Consumer
While your doctors, their diagnoses and recommendations are still the focal point of our health care strategies, wellness experts say that becoming a savvy health care consumer and advocate for yourself is now considered an integral part of maintaining your health.
Being a knowledgeable health care consumer and advocate is important for everyone, but it’s especially important for seniors and those with chronic illnesses.
By taking an active role in your own health, it can help you gain more control and confidence; enhance your medical literacy and lead you to more closely adhere to treatment protocols – all of which can lead to better health outcomes, according to the U.S. News & World Report health website www.usnews.com/health-news/health .
Today, it’s essential to know what’s in your health insurance policy -- what’s covered and what’s not; what doctors and treatment facilities are in your network; and how to appeal or mediate decisions with which you disagree.
Above all, don’t be afraid to ask questions. A good practice is to prepare a written list of questions you plan to ask during your doctor’s visit. Because the exam and consultation time is limited, you need a written blueprint, to make the most of it.
Keep a copy of your own medical records. With electronic medical record keeping, it’s easier than ever. In that way, if you have to change doctors, you will have documentation of all your doctor visits and your new doctor will have something to work with until your records are transferred. Also, double check your medical bills. Did you know that eight in 10 medical bills contain errors? Experts say assume something may be wrong, and to go over each charge and procedure carefully for accuracy.
Find out when a second opinion is appropriate. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, one in 20 Americans are victims of outpatient diagnostic errors.
Good reasons for a second opinion include: recommendations for major non-emergency surgery; and double checking the correctness of your diagnosis – especially if it’s a serious illness such as cancer. Before seeking a second opinion, check to see if it is covered by your policy.
Make sure you take advantage of free preventive care, which is required as a part of the Affordable Care Act. These include 15 free health screenings and services such as: immunizations, alcohol and tobacco misuse screening and treatment, blood pressure and cholesterol screenings, obesity and Type 2 diabetes screenings, depression screening, colorectal cancer screening, pap tests, prenatal care, mammograms and others.
As a way to start, Stephanie Harris, founder and president of Complete Wellness and Associates, recommends these “5 Tips To Help You Become A Savvy Health Care Consumer.”
1. Find out what kinds of testing is recommended for you, based on your age, ethnicity and if you have any known chronic ailments. This information could come from your primary care physician or by consulting online services such as www.webmd.com or www.mayoclinic.org or other websites. Then, go ahead and get the testing done.
2. Put together a good health care team. A basic team includes: your primary care physician – an internist who is versed in your stage of life; (if you are a woman) a gynecologist; and a pharmacist, who can help you avoid drug interaction problems.
3. Weave into your schedule at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day – including strength training. Exercise, on a regular, daily basis is essential as a disease preventative.
4. Find out what your caloric intake should be for your age, sex and activity. Then, if you want to maintain your weight, continue your current consumption of calories, or reduce them if you want to lose weight. If you have a weight issue, consider adding a dietitian to your health care team. Your health insurance may pay for it, depending on your age and physical condition.
5. Familiarize yourself with your health insurance benefits. Take the time to read your handbook, and if you have any questions, call your plan administrator or customer service hotline.
“Knowledge of a patient, his or her habits, diet and activity is key to designing the right health care program for that person,” Ms. Harris explained. “The reason why being a savvy health care consumer and advocate is so important, is because no one knows you better than you. You have to take an active role in your own care, so you will obtain the best outcomes with your health.”
Contact Ms. Harris, founder and president of Complete Wellness and Associates, a wellness and health promotion company that brings together professionals from various professions to help Baby Boomers and seniors achieve optimal health, at 513-277-1225.
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