Medical costs can really eat up a budget and poor health can have an extremely negative influence on your life.
We all know the positive benefits of exercising , and it isn’t my intention to remind you of something you already know. For me, I love Karate, but stubborn tendinitis and back spasms have kept me on the sidelines, however, I also love walking and try to do it daily, weather cooperating. Increasing vegetables and intermittent fasting (no food after dinner) have helped with weight control.
Having a good relationship with your family doctor and any specialist is crucial. Yearly physicals with in-depth blood and urine tests can catch things quickly. For example, early stage cancer can throw off your blood work and cause some blood test to come back indicating further testing should be done. Nagging pains should also be described to your health care provider. Remember, you are not being a complainer but your pain could lead to early indication of a serious problem.
Becoming familiar with your medical insurance plan is important. Some medical plans go by the actual year rather than a calendar year. The actual year means 365 days since the last time it was done. This requires you to break out the calendar and plan your health year. Also, don’t forget about optometrist and dental visits. Even if you don’t have corrective lenses, it’s a good idea to have an exam to catch any potential problems early. Also, discuss with your primary caregiver vaccines, and describe out-of-country trips you plan on taking, in case additional vaccines are required.
Prescriptions can be another opportunity to save. There are several drugs available for the same conditions. Finding generics and formulary medicines will save you money. Download your medical plan formulary and take it to your doctor visits. Warehouse stores such as Costco can also save money, as well as other prescription websites, such as Good RX.
Finally, urgent care can provide a superior experience to emergency rooms, and your pocketbook will be happier. These facilities are useful for non-life-threatening conditions that need immediate care.
I hope these suggestions help lead you to better health and lower medical costs.
