In fact, a study conducted by Center for Talent Innovation determined that women are the Chief Medical Officers for their families, with 94 percent of working moms making health care decisions for others.
And this is often another responsibility on a long list of to-dos to be completed while balancing a busy family schedule. While health care is important to you and your family, it can be a headache.
Here are a few health care hacks to ease the burden on your time, memory and wallet.
Virtual care. When any of your family is feeling sick and experiencing mild symptoms, virtually visiting a doctor online or over the phone can save you time and money. You or your family members can get the care you need, while avoiding the busy doctor’s office, from the comfort of the couch. Companies such as MedNow make it possible to reach a physician with non-urgent health concerns and secure prescriptions from your home.
Virtual care is a good option if anyone in your family is suffering from:
- Allergies
- Back pain
- Bites and stings
- Cough, cold and flu
- Diarrhea
- Ear ache/pain
- Fever
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Nausea/vomiting
- Pink eye
- Rash and hives
- Sinus problems
- Sprains and strains
- Urinary symptoms
Many physicians and health plans also offer discounted rates for using online services, saving you money.
Online immunization records. There are so many immunizations that your family gets each year and remembering who’s had what can be tough. Who hasn’t lost their immunization card at least once? Thankfully, you can manage your immunizations records online through the CDC. The online resource helps keep track of what immunizations you or your child has received and what immunizations are still needed.
Keep in mind that immunizations for your children come at little to no cost for you. Children 18 and under, who are enrolled in a group or individual health plan, have access to immunizations recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) with no copayments when administered by an in-network provider.
Tracking costs and bills. Bargain shopping and couponing for health care is now an option for budget savvy moms. There are several sites available that enable you to research your health care costs for specific procedures by physician or health care practice. These tools could save you anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on the facility or service.
Many health plans also offer online tracking tools to help you stay on top of outstanding bills and track your anticipated expenses against your deductible. If you want to avoid paying more than necessary for doctor visits, this can come in handy.
With all the tools available, you can navigate the health care system successfully, reduce your out of pocket costs and stay organized. By taking advantage of these resources, you can reduce your health care worries and focus on what’s important, your family’s health.
