Single in the City
Five Things Every Single Woman Should Know About Her Health Benefits
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With so many items on the shopping list — including those hot new shoes you just saw — it can be tough to live on a budget. Add to that things like fitness classes, gym memberships and other activities you want to do to be healthy and active, and it becomes even harder.
Savvy women know that while budgeting is important, you also need to stay healthy to achieve your goals and have fun. So when it comes to managing your health care, there are several ways you can save money while still taking care of your body and mind.
No matter what city you live in, here are five ways to live it up on a budget:
- Going to the Gym Just Got Easier Some employers offer discounted gym memberships as part of their health benefits packages, so be sure to ask your health benefits director or HR manager about this. Your plan might even help pay for alternative therapies like acupuncture, nutritional counselors or weight loss programs. Everyone knows the best way to cut down on health care costs is to keep yourself as healthy as possible, so get active and work up a sweat so you can feel and look your best.
- Don't Forget About Your Smile
If your employer offers dental insurance, take advantage of it. Go for checkups and cleanings twice a year. Dental insurance can also help cover costly non-routine procedures in case they're needed. So be sure to factor dental health into your overall health care so you can show off those beautiful pearly whites. - Prescriptions: Getting More for Less
Whether it's picking up your dry cleaning, getting to the grocery store or buying gifts, it's hard to keep up with a long list of errands. But there's one stop you might be able to cross off your list — the pharmacy. Many plans now let you sign up for mail-order drugs. Not only is it more convenient, but it will save you money, too. Check with your health plan to see if a mail-order option is available to you. - FSAs — A New Card in Your Wallet
Some plans offer FSA debit cards, which can be used like any other debit card you carry. These cards can help you pay for medical expenses that are not covered by insurance, like prescription sunglasses, aspirin and first-aid supplies. Remember, your FSA contributions are tax free so you can actually save money just by participating. FSA debit cards are not only easy to use, but they also eliminate some of the paperwork associated with FSAs and are accepted at doctors' offices, drug stores and even online for purchases like mail-order drugs. - Be Sure to Add it All Up
Between doctor's visits, monthly prescriptions and other expenses, it's easy to lose sight of your health care spending. Develop an estimate to help you stay on track using the Health Expense Calculator. Or better yet, keep track of all your visits, immunizations and medications in a personal health record. These tools will not only help you keep your budget in check, but they'll help you manage your health care more efficiently so you'll have extra time to spend with your friends.
