Taking a more active role in your health and healthcare can sometimes be intimidating and leave you feeling uncertain. An important part of taking that step is asking the right questions and knowing where to find the right resources when looking for a chiropractor or health care provider. Here are some tips we put together to help you navigate:
1. BE PATIENT WHEN SELECTING YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER
Ask friends and family for recommendations, do your own research, and look into what your health insurance plan will cover. (Even chiropractic is sometimes covered by your insurance!) To help you narrow down your choices, here are some important questions to ask:
Where is the office located?
What are the office hours?
What is the chiropractor's specialty...pediatrics, geriatrics, etc.?
If the chiropractor is unavailable, is there another staff member who will be able to answer your questions?
Approximately how long does each appointment usually last?
2. LEARN WHAT YOUR HEALTH PLAN OFFERS
As was mentioned above, chiropractic care is often covered by insurance plans. Contact your provider to see what your deductible, co-insurance, max out-of-pocket, and services are covered by your plan. Then, give us a call and we can help you work within your plan.
3. ACTIVELY PREVENT HEALTH ISSUES
A good primary care doctor and regular chiropractic visits are part of being a smart health consumer, but it is also important for you to make smart and healthy choices in your everyday life. During your next appointment, ask what stretches you can do between adjustments to keep your body in check.
4. BE HONEST WITH YOUR DOCTOR
You are spending your money for your healthcare provider to give you their expertise, and in order for them to give you the best care possible, they need all the facts. Give accurate and complete information about your health and habits during your visits.
5. DON'T BE AFRAID TO ASK QUESTIONS
If you ever have any questions, concerns, or just don't understand why something is happening or what you are being told to do, just ask! Just as your doctors need complete information from you, you need to have a complete understanding of what is happening with your health.
Do you have any tips that have helped you make smart health consumer decisions? Leave them in the comments!