Using your resources wisely
In the United States, we have access to technology and medication that can improve our health and prolong our lives. How we use these resources – in concert with our lifestyle choices – requires intention and thought.
And, whether we’re spending our own money or our insurance company’s, the decisions we make impact others in our families, our communities, and our congregations.
Make responsible health care decisions
To be responsible stewards of our health, we need to understand the health risks we face, embrace habits that prevent illness, and evaluate the cost and benefits of health care. Taking the time now to do some research may save you time and money – or even your life. Here are some tips to help you manage your health care and be a faithful steward of your God-given resources.
Practice preventive care
By receiving regular, preventive care, illnesses and disease are more likely to be found early on. And, in between doctor visits, you can practice prevention at home by eating healthy and exercising.
Communicate
Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor questions. He or she won’t know what you’re thinking about unless you say something!
Know your health history – and share it with your doctor
This includes your habits, symptoms, and family history. Also consider doing the same for the rest of your family.
Know your medications
It may be helpful to write down the names, dosages, and frequency of your medicines, and keep the list in your purse or wallet, in case you forget the name of your prescriptions or if something were to happen to you.
Plan ahead
Set up a living will and health care proxy, and discuss your intentions with your family. This enables you to make sure you won’t be receiving – or paying for – care you wouldn’t want.
Be practical
Don’t rush to the emergency room if it’s not an emergency. A doctor’s appointment for the next day may be all you need. If you’re not sure, call a nurse advice line. Additionally, if surgery can be done as an outpatient, save yourself the time and money and don’t have the surgery in a hospital.
Be realistic
If it is an emergency, like a heart attack, stroke, or serious accident, get to the hospital. In these situations, saving time can save your life – as well as save you money. So, it’s important to be able to identify and recognize your symptoms.
Understand your insurance and review your medical bills
You need to know what your plan covers, and whether or not you’re required to notify your insurance company before receiving certain kinds of care (like surgery). Also, when you get your bill, review it to make sure it looks correct and you aren’t being charged for services you didn’t receive.
Choose your medical providers, if possible
If you are participating in a preferred provider organization (PPO), find a doctor or hospital in the network. Going outside your network – even to a doctor who was highly recommended to you – will end up costing you and your insurance company even more money.
Start taking control of your health care
Do you know how to make your health care dollars go as far as possible? Download
The cost of your health care: What you can do about it (53KB .pdf file) to learn more. Another way to take control of your health care is to learn more about using your health resources wisely. Here’s some further reading that might be helpful: