This end-of-year healthcare checklist will help you save money and take care of your healthcare needs.
From using up benefits and scheduling procedures to maximizing HSA or FSA contributions, these simple steps will prepare you for the new year while keeping costs down. Don’t wait—act now to get the most from your plan!
Your End-of-Year Healthcare Checklist
1. Use Your Remaining Health Insurance Benefits
Take advantage of fully covered preventive services like annual physicals, mammograms, or flu shots.
If you’ve met your deductible, now is the time to visit specialists for issues you’ve been delaying, such as skin checks, cardiology consultations, or orthopedic evaluations. For chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma, refill prescriptions, order testing supplies, or schedule follow-up appointments to ensure you have everything you need before the new year.
2. Schedule Major Medical Procedures Now
If your deductible is met, schedule elective surgeries like joint replacements or cataract removal to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Diagnostic tests like MRIs, CT scans, or ultrasounds may also be less expensive if done now instead of waiting for the deductible reset. Contact your healthcare provider to confirm availability and get on their schedule before year-end.
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3. Maximize HSA or FSA Contributions
Check your FSA balance since unused funds may expire.
Spend it on eligible expenses like prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, contact lenses, or first aid supplies. For HSA account holders, confirm you’ve contributed the annual maximum limit for tax advantages. The 2024 limits are $4,150 for individuals and $8,300 for families, with an extra $1,000 catch-up contribution if you’re 55 or older.
4. Refill Medications and Supplies
Switch to 90-day refills for maintenance medications to lock in lower costs before deductibles reset.
If you use medical equipment like a CPAP machine, insulin pump, or blood glucose monitor, order replacements or necessary parts now. Verify your insurance will cover these items before the new plan year begins.
5. Review Your Health Plan for Next Year
Look at your current plan’s premiums, deductibles, out-of-pocket maximums, and covered services.
Check if your preferred doctors, hospitals, and medications are still in-network for next year. If your needs are changing, consider switching to a plan with better coverage, a lower deductible, or a broader network. Enroll before the deadline to avoid losing coverage.
6. Take Advantage of Vision and Dental Benefits
If your plan includes vision care, schedule an eye exam or update your glasses and contact lenses.
Use FSA funds to pay for eyewear if applicable. For dental insurance, book cleanings, fillings, or major treatments like crowns, bridges, or implants before your deductible resets. Many plans cover preventive dental visits at no cost.
7. Complete Physical Therapy or Rehab Programs
If you’ve been prescribed physical therapy, occupational therapy, or rehab, finish your sessions now if your deductible has been met.
Delaying treatment into the next year could lead to higher out-of-pocket costs. Work with your therapist to accelerate your treatment schedule, if necessary.
8. Use Mental Health Benefits
Schedule counseling or therapy sessions now to reduce your costs if you’ve met your deductible.
Many plans also cover psychiatric visits or medications, so confirm your benefits. If you’ve been considering starting therapy, now is a good time to explore options before the year resets.
9. Plan Maternity and Family Care
If you’re expecting, schedule prenatal appointments, ultrasounds, and any necessary lab work.
Check if your insurance covers prenatal vitamins or birthing classes. For families, use well-child visits to ensure your children are up to date on vaccinations, growth check-ups, and screenings. These visits are often fully covered under most health plans.
10. Check for Health Incentives and Wellness Programs
Many insurance plans offer rewards for completing wellness activities, like health risk assessments, smoking cessation programs, or fitness goals.
Some programs offer premium discounts, gift cards, or other incentives. Review your plan’s wellness benefits and complete any eligible activities before the year ends to claim rewards.
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End-of-Year Healthcare Checklist Summary
Taking these steps will help you save money, optimize your benefits, and enter the new year fully prepared for your healthcare needs.
Don’t delay—act now to make the most of your plan!
Need help? That’s what we’re here for! Our team of expert Personal Benefits Managers specialize in making it easy to understand your health insurance, health sharing, life insurance, and long-term care insurance options.
And we’ll help you keep up to date as your health, budget, and the plans available evolve over time.
We’re here whenever you need us! All you need to do is schedule an appointment for a free consultation.
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