“What’s Up, Doc?” Blog Series Part 5: Make the Most of Your Waiting Room Time

Today, we’re on our fifth part in our series, “Make the Most of Your Waiting Room Time.”  You’ve arrived at the doctor’s office and they’ve taken your name.  So now what, Insurance Mom?  Here you go…

OK, family!  You’re in it to win it.  Thanks for tuning in for our first, second,  third, and fourth parts of our blog series, “What’s Up, Doc?”   We’re giving you tips starting from the first little inkling of the need to see a doctor to a diagnosis.

1. On the day of your appointment, call and ask if the doctor is running on time.  If they’re running late, sometimes the receptionist can give you a heads up that you can arrive a bit later.  Less waiting in waiting room when you’re feeling under the weather!
2. Look at your insurance ID card so you know what your IN-network office visit co-pay is.    Remember, that the office visit co-pay is what the doctor charges you just for showing up!   Sometimes the office visit fee is all you’ll pay for a consult.  But sometimes, you will also pay for any medical services the doctor does to/for you.
3. On ALL plans that comply with the ACA (ObamaCare), you get one FREE check-up a year with an IN-network provider – NO co-pays required!.    If you’re seeing the doc for your annual physical, know ahead of time exactly WHAT services are covered.   And make sure you do not get charged for the visit.
4. For a list of what’s covered, see this webpage for guidelines.   Take the list with you so you can show it to the doctor.   You’d be surprised how much the doctors don’t know about the ACA!!

Please keep me posted on any thoughts or questions that come up while reading.  Share with a friend if you think they’d benefit!

View Our Insurance Services