Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
Life is full of uncertainties, and your health is no exception.
When you're not protected by a health insurance plan, the fear of unexpected accidents or even the prospect of routine medical care can loom over your head.
However, taking control of your health and safeguarding your future might be easier than you think. Don't let confusion stop you from finding the right plan for you and your family.
Review these helpful tips to make informed decisions regarding your health insurance plan.
1. Peace of mind through protection
Enrolling in a health plan provides you with the assurance that your health-related expenses will be covered when you need them the most. It's not just about covering the costs of accidents; routine check-ups and preventive care are equally important. Finding the right health plan for your situation can prepare you to tackle health concerns head-on, without the constant worry of financial strain.
2. Evaluate your options during open enrollment period
Be sure to use open enrollment as a time to evaluate your options. Take this time to reassess your healthcare needs for the upcoming year. Examine different plan types and determine if you're eligible for an Advanced Premium Tax Credit (APTC) or Cost Sharing Reduction (CSR).
"By considering these options, you might discover that switching to a different plan or adjusting your deductible could significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses," Heidi Castaneda, assistant vice president of small employer and individual products for Select Health said.
With an APTC, the government shares the burden of your premium payments, lightening your monthly load. CSRs, on the other hand, enhance your benefits, translating to overall reduced costs. In essence, it's about finding a plan that not only fits your health requirements but also your budget.
Don't let procrastination or indecision jeopardize your health coverage. Use the open enrollment period to seize the opportunity for peace of mind and preparedness.
–Heidi Castaneda, assistant vice president of small employer and individual products for Select Health
When choosing the right plan, it's also important to look at the added benefits they offer. For example, at Select Health, as part of their plan options, members have lots of extras that many either don't know about or forget to use. But taking advantage of these services can make a difference for many individuals and families:
- Member discounts – Perhaps the least-known membership extra is Select Health's discount program. Members can search for discounts on services such as LASIK, acupuncture, tattoo removal, and more.
- Healthy beginnings – Moms-to-be, especially those with high-risk pregnancies, should take advantage of this program, which is included in certain plans. Intermountain nurse care managers are happy to answer questions, and moms get a free book about pregnancy and childcare.
- Member advocates – At times you may need help finding the right doctor or getting an appointment. Our Member Advocates are experts at doing just that—they help members locate providers of all types, including those who speak a specific language, and they will even make an appointment for you.
- Intermountain Connect Care – Talk to a provider through your smartphone or computer. Connect Care is a convenient way to address concerns such as fever, cough, joint pain/strain, minor burns or rashes, or sinus pain, to name a few.
3. Expert assistance at your fingertips
If you have questions or need help choosing a plan, Select Health experts can help. You can call your insurance agent or call Select Health at 855-442-0220. In addition, assistance is available in Utah through the Association for Utah Community Health (801-974-5522) and Take Care Utah (takecareutah.org).
"Choosing the right health insurance plan can be overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone," Castaneda said. "If you have questions or need help, support is just a call away."
4. Closing the enrollment gap
It's important to remember that open enrollment has its limits. Once it closes, you can only enroll if you experience a qualifying life event.
"Don't let procrastination or indecision jeopardize your health coverage," Castaneda emphasizes. "Use the open enrollment period to seize the opportunity for peace of mind and preparedness."
In Utah, you can enroll from November 1 to December 15 (Jan 1. effective date for coverage), with an extended deadline to January 15 (Feb 1 effective date for coverage) for added flexibility.
To enroll in a health plan before time runs out, you can visit our selecthealth.org/shop, to find the plan that best fits your needs.
