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Consumer Driven Healthcare

Use the appropriate level of care

When you're sick or injured, your choice for medical care depends on your symptoms.

Home care

Care at home is an important kind of therapy and must be taken seriously. For advice, call a nurse hot line or search on the Internet.

Doctor's visit

Your doctor should be your first source for medical advice. The doctor-patient relationship is important because your doctor knows you, has all the medical records in one place, and can make the best decision based on everything he or she knows about you.

Urgent care center

Go to an urgent care center for minor injuries or symptoms for the same reasons you'd go to your doctor - and when your doctor isn't available. These centers don't require an appointment, are open late, are typically less expensive, and provide faster care than an emergency room. Be sure the center is in your health plan's network.

Emergency room

Emergency rooms are best used for illness and injury that threaten life and limb - but not for colds, rashes, and minor conditions. So, when you think you are having a medical emergency, trust your instincts and go to the ER! Call 911 if you think the condition may worsen on the way to the hospital. Paramedics can administer life-saving treatment immediately.

Put your health first

One of the best ways to be a better healthcare consumer - and to reduce your costs - is to get healthy and stay healthy. Develop a good relationship with your doctor. You can work together to keep an eye on your health. With proper screenings, you may be able to catch problems before they get worse.

Here are some other ways to put your health first:

Take your medication as prescribed

Not refilling your prescriptions may seem like a good way to save money, but it may cost you much more in the long run. Many prescription drugs, when taken as directed, can keep you from needing expensive medical care or hospitalization. So make sure everyone in your family follows doctor's orders.

Take a health assessment

A health assessment is a brief questionnaire about your personal and family health history, as well as your current habits. After you take the assessment, you get a personalized report. Taking a health assessment doesn't take much time - and the information you get can help you enhance your health without a lot of effort. For instance, you may find out about simple dietary changes that can give you more energy.

Where can you find a health assessment? Many health insurance companies offer a health assessment for members. If your insurer doesn't have an assessment, look for other online surveys like the "Real Age" test.

Participate in health and wellness programs

Many employers sponsor health fairs where you can get information from local vendors, doctors, hospitals, community services, and health educators. You may also have the opportunity to get health screenings such as cholesterol tests and blood pressure readings. Health fairs and worksite screenings are a great way to get information about preventive care.

Some employers offer additional wellness programs such as phone-based health coaching. These services provide support and encouragement to help you reach your wellness goals. Another popular option is a rewards program, where you can earn rewards - including cash, gift certificates, or savings on health plan premiums - for working to improve your health.

Also, if you have diabetes, asthma, heart disease, or another chronic condition, you may have access to free disease management programs. These programs can really help you stay healthy and possibly save you money at the same time. Some health plans also have programs to prevent illness, like smoking cessation, weight loss, and even stress management. Remember, staying healthy is still the best way to save money on healthcare!

To find out about health and wellness programs you can take advantage of, talk to your employer's benefits administrator or call your health plan.

Change your unhealthy habits

Yeah, it's easier said than done. But do what you can, and you'll see and feel a difference.

First, look at your diet and nutrition. Americans are bombarded by ads for fatty, processed foods and high-sugar treats - all of which dramatically increase your chances of getting heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, strokes, and diabetes. For more information about good nutrition - and help setting and reaching your health goals - talk to your doctor or take a health assessment.

Next, remember that exercise is essential. You don't need to run a marathon to get the health benefits of exercise. Even if you simply walk three times a day for 10 minutes, you'll see an improvement in your health. Once again, for help setting exercise goals and fitting exercise into your life, talk to your doctor or take a health assessment.

And finally, if you smoke, please quit. Don't fool yourself into thinking you'll be the one to escape its dangers. Your habits affect your health, your appearance, your finances, and your family.

Watch Healthcare Video: What is consumer-driven healthcare?