Supplemental benefits plans are excellent when it comes to enhancing your traditional health insurance coverage. These plans can provide coverage for services that may not always be covered under your primary health insurance policy, such as dental, vision, hearing and more. However, to get the most from your supplemental benefits plan, you will need to understand how it all works and what is covered. In this post, we’ll share some tips and tricks that you might find helpful when it comes to getting the most from your supplemental benefits plan.
Understand Your Coverage
The first step in getting the most out of your supplemental benefits plan is to understand your coverage. Take some time to review your plan documents and understand the services that are covered and how much coverage you have for each service. It can be worth looking at comparisons to Firstline Benefits, for example, to get a better idea of what you’ve got and how it stacks up to other options available. Taking some time to understand your coverage will help you make more informed decisions regarding using your benefits.
Maximize Your Benefits
Once you have a better understanding of your coverage, you can begin to think about how you are going to maximize your benefits. For example, if you get a certain amount of coverage for dental services included in your plan, use up your coverage by scheduling regular checkups and cleanings. Or, if you have coverage for vision services included as part of your plan, get an eye exam if you’re due one and update your glasses or contacts if needed.
Use In-Network Providers
Using in-network providers is a great way to save money on your supplemental benefits plan. In-network providers are providers that have agreed to provide services at a discounted rate, so even if you do have to pay out of pocket, you will pay less by using them. Before choosing a provider, always check with your plan to see which ones are in-network.
Submit Claims Promptly
If you do need to use an out-of-network provider, be sure to submit your claims as promptly as possible. Most plans come with a deadline for submitting claims, and you will not be able to get your expenses reimbursed if you miss the deadline. Always keep all your receipts and other documentation so that you can easily and quickly submit your claims.
Understand Out-of-Pocket Costs
Even if you have a good supplemental benefits plan, you may still have to pay some out-of-pocket expenses for certain services. For example, the plan may cover the cost of a certain percentage of the cost of a dental or vision procedure, but you’ll be responsible for paying the rest. Understanding your out-of-pocket costs for each service will help you budget accordingly.
Take Advantage of Discounts
Finally, many supplemental benefits plans offer discounts on various products and services. For example, you might be able to get a discounted gym membership, eyeglasses, or hearing aids. Take some time to find out which discounts you’re eligible for and take advantage of them to save money and get the most from your plan.
A supplemental benefits plan can be a great way to enhance your healthcare coverage. If your employer provides these benefits, keep the above tips in mind to make the most of them.
