1. Understand What’s Covered

Learning how to use your plan effectively starts with understanding what is covered. For instance, most plans include benefits like GP visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, and preventive care. However, you might notice that the type of plan you have has some limitations and exclusions, so reading the fine print can help you understand if there are any co-payments you would be liable for, treatments that aren’t covered and how to get authorisation to access your benefits.

2. Choose In-Network Providers

Depending on your health plan, it might offer you the option to use out-of-network doctors; you might notice more savings when you choose to use in-network providers instead. These healthcare professionals and facilities agree with your insurer to provide services at reduced rates. This means you can manage your costs and avoid paying higher out-of-pocket charges.

3. Take Advantage of Preventive Care

Health plans often fully cover preventive care because it’s a practical way to help identify and address potential health issues earlier. This can help keep you healthier while reducing the need for costly treatments down the line. In most cases, routine checks can help you make the most of your health plan.

4. Learn the Claims Process

Understanding how to manage claims is an important part of using your health plan wisely. While many providers handle claims directly with the insurer, there may be times when you’ll need to submit a claim yourself. You can save time and money when you familiarise yourself with the claims process, including knowing the required documentation and keeping records by retaining copies of all bills, prescriptions, and receipts to avoid complications later.

Additionally, you should take the time to review documents that clearly explain your covered benefits, such as the policy wording and related brochures. The last thing you want to deal with is being billed for services covered by your plan. Proactively managing claims can help prevent unnecessary stress and ensure you’re reimbursed promptly when necessary.

5. Track Your Expenses

Knowing how to manage your spending by maintaining healthy habits can encourage staying within your budget and ensure you get the most out of your benefits. Moreover, understanding how co-payments, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs can significantly influence your cover options can provide better insights. Here are a few simple tips to consider:

• Regularly reviewing your statements to stay updated on your expenses.
• Scheduling necessary treatments or procedures before the year ends to maximise your available benefits.
• Leveraging budgeting tools to track your healthcare expenses and pinpoint savings opportunities.

6. Use Customer Support Services

If you’re unsure about your benefits or how to handle a particular situation, you shouldn’t hesitate to contact your insurer’s customer service team for guaranteed peace of mind. If Affinity Health is your service provider, you can access exceptional customer support and unlock your benefits through pre-authorisation. They’re there to help you navigate your health plan and resolve issues by:

• Answering questions about your cover, clarifying billing issues, and guiding you through the claims process.
• Providing case managers for members with chronic conditions or complex medical needs.
• Helping you make informed decisions to get the most out of your plan.

Using your health plan wisely is mainly about saving money and taking control of your health and well-being. By understanding your cover, sticking to in-network providers, and prioritising preventive care, you can make your health plan work to benefit your health needs. Affinity Health understands that health is an investment by providing various health cover options to suit your budget and health needs.