Find out how make better use of your health plan

Learn how to make the most of your health plan

First, the COVID-19 pandemic has heightened people's concerns about access to healthcare. According to a recent survey by the National Association of Benefits Administrators (ANAB), 811% of Brazilians are paying more attention, particularly to issues related to medical treatments.

As a result, health insurance has gained a special place on people's wish lists, with the survey considering it the third greatest achievement of Brazilians in 2021. Thus, with more people having access to supplementary health, it is important to learn how to explore some of the service's particularities. 

Therefore, we have prepared 4 useful tips to help you get the most out of your health plan.

#1 Be aware of the shortage

One of the main elements of a health plan contract is the lack, which is the period you must wait for appointments, tests, and hospitalizations. The National Supplementary Health Agency (ANS) establishes the maximum waiting periods, which cannot be exceeded by health insurance providers. The main deadlines are:

• 24 hours for urgency and emergency;
• 180 days for hospitalizations, surgeries and complex procedures;
• 24 months for pre-existing illnesses or injuries;
• 300 days for births. 

#2 Discover the accredited service network

Health plans typically consist of their own network and an accredited service network for their clients. Composed of doctors, clinics, laboratories, and hospitals, this network helps expand the range of care available. You can access all the information on your health plan's website or app. It's a great way to find the service you need closest to your home or work. 

#3 Find a reference doctor

Despite having access to a vast number of professionals available to care for you, it's a good idea to seek out a referral physician to support you over the years. After all, the more knowledge a healthcare professional has of their patient's history, the better the results will be. This is the basis for Primary Health Care, a model already adopted in several European countries and Canada and is growing in Brazil.

#4 Avoid emergency room visits

Use this service only if absolutely necessary, in cases of urgency and emergency. In most cases, emergency room care is twice as expensive, which impacts price adjustments for the following year. Therefore, it's best to consult in clinics and offices, leaving general hospitals and emergency room services only for urgent and emergency cases.

Did you like the tips?

Stay informed about your plan's details and use your health insurance services wisely. Taking care of your health is essential.

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