Have you ever fully explored everything your health insurance plan has to offer? For many of us, insurance simply means doctor visits, prescription coverage, or maybe some specialist care, but have you thought about the extra perks hiding in your plan?
From gym memberships to personalized coaching and even help to quit smoking, your health insurance might be packed with wellness benefits you’re not even aware of.
This quick guide will help uncover these hidden benefits, so you can get the most out of your plan and take steps toward a healthier you.
Hidden Benefits You Didn’t Know About
You might be surprised at how many health insurance plans now include wellness and preventive benefits. These extras are designed to help policyholders lead healthier lives and could save you money along the way!
1. Discounted or Free Gym Memberships
Did you know that some health insurance plans partner with gyms or fitness centers? Some plans in the Medicare space offer subsidized or completely free gym memberships to encourage regular exercise. Check if your insurer has deals with local gyms or offers reimbursement programs for memberships.
2. Diet and Weight Loss Coaching
If you’re working on your fitness or managing your weight, your insurance plan may offer expert diet and weight loss coaching. Under the Affordable Care Act, most insurance plans are required to cover such services if they’re considered preventive care. This can include sessions with a registered dietitian or counseling programs aimed at promoting weight management.
3. Smoking Cessation Programs
If you’re looking to quit smoking, your health insurance plan may be more of an ally than you think. Many policies cover nicotine replacement therapies like patches or gum, as well as professional counseling and even prescription medications to help you stop smoking for good.
4. Mental Health and Stress Management Resources
Mental health is as important as physical health. Many insurance plans include access to therapy or counseling sessions, stress management resources, or even mindfulness apps like Calm or Headspace as part of their benefits.
5. Preventive Screenings and Check-Ups
Apart from the basics, your insurance might cover types of preventive services like cholesterol checks, skin cancer screenings, or flu shots—all aimed to catch health issues early and keep you in prime shape.
6. Wellness Incentive Programs
Certain insurers provide wellness incentives—think rewards for tracking steps, completing health assessments, or sticking to exercise goals. You could earn gift cards, discounts on premiums, or other perks just for staying healthy.
Tips to Discover Hidden Insurance Benefits
Curious about tapping into these perks? Here’s how to find out what your policy has to offer.
1. Read (or Revisit) Your Policy Documents
We get it—insurance documents aren’t the easiest to read. But they hold the key details about additional benefits your policy includes. Look under sections labeled “wellness,” “preventive care,” or “extra benefits.”
2. Call Your Insurance Provider
Sometimes, the easiest way to find information is by asking directly. Call the customer service number listed on your insurance card and ask what wellness benefits are included in your plan. They can walk you through available perks you might have missed.
3. Use Your Insurance Portal or App
Most insurance companies offer online portals or mobile apps where you can find personalized information about covered benefits. Take a few minutes to explore these tools—they might lead you to unexpected rewards.
4. Ask Your Employer (If It’s through Work)
If you have employer-provided insurance, touch base with your HR department. Employers sometimes negotiate additional perks on top of the standard coverage, like wellness programs or gym deals.
Get the Most Out of Your Coverage
Your health insurance is more than just a safety net—it’s a toolbox for living a healthy, fulfilling life. By taking a proactive approach and exploring the hidden benefits available, you could improve your overall wellness without spending a dime extra.
Take a moment today to review your plan, call your provider, or check online resources. You might just find that unlocking these perks is the first step toward a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
