Perks What Perks? Understanding Your Health Insurance Add On's and Discounts
Health Literacy: Understanding Your Health Insurance Perks!
Fact: Health insurance is expensive. Fact: It’s also confusing. Fact: Many people miss out on perks that could save them money and improve their health. Let’s fix that! Another Fact – You may never see the word “perk” used so much in a blog! (If you’re wondering just what a perk is, in this case it means “benefit”).
During the healthcare.gov open enrollment (November through January), I help people navigate the maze of health insurance. One thing I’ve learned? Picking the right plan is just the beginning. Once enrolled, it’s important to explore all the other benefits your plan offers.
What Are These Perks?
Health insurance perks typically fall into two categories:
- Discount Programs: Savings on items like supplements, gym memberships, and over-the-counter medications.
- Value-Add Programs: Extra benefits such as 24/7 nurse hotlines, mental health resources, smoking cessation programs, and free rides to appointments.
Why Explore Your Plan’s Perks?
No matter how you sign up for health insurance—through work, healthcare.gov, or on your own—you now have access to a variety of perks. The first step? Visit your plan’s website and create an account. This allows you to:
- Access discounts and perks.
- Check billing information and claims.
- Find a provider in your network
- Stay informed about plan updates.
Pro Tip: Download your insurer’s app for easy access to your benefits on the go.
Examples of Insurance Perks
Here’s a quick look at some popular health insurance companies and their perks:
| Insurance Provider | Perks |
|---|---|
| Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) | “Blue 365” offers discounts on hearing aids, glasses, supplements, gym memberships, and even pickleball paddles! |
| Aetna | Discounts on meal plans, mental health support, supplements, and online health coaching. Watch their website’s video for more details! |
| Aetna CVS | $25 quarterly allowance for CVS-branded products (use it or lose it!) and a 20% discount on CVS Health products. |
| Superior (Texas Medicaid) | Up to $30 quarterly allowance for over-the-counter items, depending on your plan. |
Important Note: Always double-check that discounts are available in your area. For example, Aetna’s discount plan isn’t available to policyholders in New York.
Take Action Today My Friends
- Visit your insurance plan’s website (e.g., BCBS, Aetna, Superior, etc.).
- Create an account and explore the perks.
- Share your favorite tips and tricks in the comments below!