Security Health Plan Cares (Summer 2007)

The cost of health care

Health care copayments, deductibles and coinsurance are some of the biggest complaint areas that members have. Along with general inflation, there are several significant factors that drive health care costs, which include:

• An aging population who use more care, more often
• New medical technologies, treatments and medications
• Excess usage of avoidable care

Understanding health care costs and how they are applied to your health plan benefits is important. If you have any questions about costs, covered services, necessary authorizations, etc., consult your member materials or contact Security Health Plan Customer Service. A representative will be happy to assist you.

In addition, there are a variety of ways that members can get involved to help reduce their health care costs.

1. Take good care of yourself. Good self-care at home can reduce your health care costs.
2. Get appropriate health screening. Talk with your health care provider to work out a schedule for preventive health screening that is appropriate for you.
3. Become aware of the risks of different lifestyle choices such as alcohol and drug use, home and driver safety, and eating habits. The riskier your lifestyle the more likely you are to have health problems and higher costs.
4. Know what your medical benefits cover. You need to know what your benefits are before you can use them appropriately.
5. Take an active role in health care decision making. Take the time to build a good relationship with your provider, which can result in a more effective treatment plan.
6. Ask your provider about every prescribed medication and medical test. Learn why the tests are being done and what your options are.
7. Avoid hospitalization when possible. Find out if there are alternatives.
8. Use the emergency room appropriately. Services received in an emergency room tend to be more costly than in a provider's office.
9. Check your hospital and provider bills carefully. Notify your provider and Security Health Plan promptly when errors are found.