Evening Edition: Getting The Most Out Of Your Healthcare Benefits
The Fox News Rundown
Deep Dive
Why is it important to maximize healthcare benefits before the end of the year?
Health insurance coverage resets in January, and unused benefits like flexible spending accounts may not roll over. Maximizing benefits now can save money and ensure timely medical care.
What are some preventive care services that should be considered before year-end?
Screenings for diabetes, cholesterol, blood pressure, dental, and vision checks, as well as vaccinations like the flu shot, shingles shot, pneumonia shot, HPV vaccine, and COVID vaccine for high-risk groups.
How should people approach using their flexible spending accounts (FSAs) before the year ends?
Use FSAs for medications, incidentals not covered by insurance, and consider health savings accounts for future use. Some plans allow cumulative use, reducing the rush to spend.
What advice does Dr. Siegel offer for managing respiratory illnesses during flu season?
Rapid COVID and flu tests are crucial. High-risk individuals should consider Paxlovid for COVID and Tamiflu for flu. RSV, mycoplasma, and pertussis also require attention, especially for young children.
What is Dr. Siegel's stance on the potential impact of the incoming administration on vaccine compliance?
Dr. Siegel is concerned that the dialogue on vaccines may shift too far towards personal choice, risking community immunity. He emphasizes the importance of vaccines in preventing diseases like polio and measles.
What precautions should people take during holiday gatherings to avoid spreading illnesses?
Maintain good hygiene, wash hands frequently, avoid travel when sick, and be mindful of close contact with others. Planes can be breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses.
- Importance of maximizing unused health benefits before January 1st
- Utilizing flexible spending accounts before they reset
- Getting necessary medication refills, checkups, screenings (colonoscopy, mammogram, physical)
- Importance of preventative care and available screenings for diabetes, cholesterol, blood pressure, dental, and vision
- Importance of vaccinations (flu, shingles, pneumonia, HPV, COVID)
Shownotes Transcript