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Little-known insurance freebies: cash rewards, gym memberships and more

By Gregg Newby, Contributing Writer, myOptumHealth

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It's no secret that health care is getting more expensive. Americans spend about two trillion dollars each year in hospitals and doctors' offices, leaving insurance companies to pick up the tab. And with the baby boomers now nearing retirement, those costs are bound to go higher.

That's why insurance companies are desperately looking for ways to keep you healthy. Wellness for you means less money spent for them. When you require a hospital stay or expensive treatments, their costs go up.

So it's no wonder they've started offering additional health inducements to customers.

For you, the consumer, this can mean a variety of free benefits and even an occasional cash reward. You might just qualify for some pretty sweet perks. Here are some of the most common.

Smoking cessation classes

Smoking is a high-risk behavior that can cause emphysema, lung cancer and many other health problems. Your insurer would rather help you quit than pay for surgery and treatment. If you smoke, ask your doctor about enrolling in a cessation program. These programs have been proven to be successful in about 20 percent to 40 percent of people. This is a much higher success rate than in those who quit without classes. Some employers offer a cash reward when you complete their programs.

Diabetes education

If you have diabetes, your insurer may cover the cost of an education program. These classroom seminars can get you on the track to healthy living, and give you years of added benefits. You'll learn how to eat right and to keep your blood sugar at target levels. These programs are usually taught by skilled diabetes educators, nutritionists and other health care professionals. It's a good deal for your insurer too. Your long-term health adds up to substantial savings. Ask your doctor or insurer if you qualify.

Fitness programs

If you're overweight, you might be able to score a free gym membership. Many insurers now recognize weight loss as a valid medical need. They want to help you get fit. Need help dieting? You might just be able to see a nutritionist for free. Just make sure you actually use these services, or you might end up having to pay your insurer back.

Disease management

Disease management programs are a low-cost way for patients to learn more about their disease and get involved in managing their own care. This can help you avoid complications and know when you need to see your doctor. Disease management programs appear to improve a patient's quality of health care and quality of life.

You communicate with a caregiver by telephone or email, so there may be fewer costly doctor's visits. Your insurer may be willing to cover all your costs, especially if it helps you avoid more expensive treatment down the road. Insurers now spend about $1 billion each year on numerous disease management programs. Are there any that apply to you? Ask and find out.

Of course, programs and coverage vary from place to place. No two insurance policies are the same. But if you can get any of these benefits for free, then you really ought to jump on it. Not only will these freebies enable you to save your own money, they may also be your key to added years of health and happiness.

View the original Little-known insurance freebies: cash rewards, gym memberships and more article on myOptumHealth.com 

SOURCES:

• Kongstvedt PR. Essentials of Managed Health Care. 5th ed. Sudbury, MA: Jonas and Bartlett Publishers, Inc.; 2007.

• Norman GK, Mattke S, Seid M, Ma S. All things considered, the answer is a resounding yes. American Journal of Managed Care. 2008;14:e2-e4. Accessed: 04/20/2009

• National Conference of State Legislatures. Providing diabetes health coverage: state laws and programs. March 12, 2009. Accessed: 03/12/2009

• Pilzer PZ. The New Health Insurance Solution: How to Get Cheaper, Better Coverage without a Traditional Plan. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons; 2007.

• National Coalition on Health Care. Facts on health care costs. 2009. Accessed: 04/20/2009