SEATTLE — Most health insurance plans cover an annual preventive care visit, but any extra services, like tests ordered by your doctor, could leave you with surprise costs. These tips for before, during and after your doctor's appointment will help you understand what is and isn't covered at a preventive care visit.
"We really encourage that you go with some support and education," says Premera Blue Cross Customer Service Manager Melanie Anderson, "Not everything in that preventive or wellness exam may be included in that 100% coverage."
Anderson encourages patients to go to the website for their insurance plan, see if their insurance plan has an app, or call in to check exactly what they're covered for. Those on employer-sponsored plans can also reach out to human resources for a list of conditions and services covered by their insurance plan.
Provider Engagement Manager, Tonya Owens, says it's also ok to discuss non-preventive care during your visit, but to prepare a list of topics, and let your provider know when you schedule your appointment exactly what you want to talk about.
She suggests being open and honest with your provider, "If you're concerned about cost, be honest about it and say 'hey is that going to cost me additional money? Most offices have a consult area or billing department that you can go talk to."
Customers of Premera Blue Cross can use their cost estimator to compare prices from different providers. They can also get procedure codes from their providers to make the comparison process easier with their insurer.
Certain procedures that are commonplace in annual check-ups may not be completely covered by insurance like some blood tests.
"It's important to go back to your health plan, look at what's covered, take that list with you and then you can make decisions with your doctor," Anderson said.
For more information about what is covered in your preventive checkup visit www.premera.com.
This segment is sponsored by Premera Blue Cross. Watch New Day Northwest 11:00 weekdays on KING-TV Ch.5 or streaming live on KING5.com. Connect with New Day via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram.