beniebuzz blog

I just heard a frightening story that could happen to ANY of us. I’m compelled to share when I hear something scary, gross or bizarre – I think it helps to get it out of my mind when I pass it off to someone else. Because of this odd phenomenon, I’m writing about it. You’re welcome. 

Here’s the story…

One day in November of 2014, a man (we’ll call him John) took his child to a local ER/Urgent Care. His bill ended up being the following under his insurance plan…

Total Original Price = $1,600

Insurance Paid = $1,100

Have your out-of-pocket costs increased under your current healthcare plan? The stats scream, "YES!" According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, premiums have increased 69% since 2004. If you get insurance through your employer, your contribution has skyrocketed by 81%. 

Add to that, the price of the actual healthcare has gone up exponentially!

Add to that, when you do need to access “the system,” it’s a mire of confusion.

It’s that time of year! That’s right…the “Best of 2014” lists are everywhere! So, we thought we’d join the fun and provide our top 5 freshbenies articles from 2014. Without further ado…enjoy!

1) 40 Million Reasons (OK, 4) You Need ID Theft Protection 

Did you shop at Target the few days before Christmas? 

My friend said, "It was GREAT. The store was totally empty and I could get everything I needed quickly. Of course, I have identity theft protection so I wasn’t really that concerned!”

When is the last time you had a health issue and wished you could just call a doctor for help or to answer a question or to get a prescription for a simple ailment? 

Did you hit your health insurance deductible this year? As we near the end of the year…chances are, you didn’t get anywhere near your deductible or out-of-pocket max. 

To help out this year AND next year (it’s never too late to start planning!), we’re answering some frequently asked questions to make sure you get the most out of your policy with the least impact on your budget!

TIP #1: Start with the basics.

How’s your vision? Do you ever wonder if LASIK or laser surgery would help? The first time I ever heard of LASIK was from a friend who decided to have it done in the 90’s when it first came out. She went to Canada for a couple days and stayed in a hotel to recuperate because it was approved in Canada before the US. 

Here’s an easy question: have you seen your family’s healthcare costs increase? The stats say your insurance premium rose 69% since 10 years ago.

Do random people ask you personal questions about their healthcare? I’ve worked in the benefits consulting industry – specifically, health insurance, for 25+ years – so, I get it a lot! 

Since I have some experience that might be helpful, below are my 3 tips for saving on your healthcare costs…

1. Ask Questions