How Does Health Policy Impact Me?

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Finding Value in Your CarE

A Take Action Checklist to help you and your loved ones determine if you are getting the best care for you .

AM I GETTING THE BEST CARE OR EVEN OFFERED THE BEST? Is the care appropriate for my age ? My condition ?

Am I given more than one option , if possible , with the pros and cons explained to me ? Is my provider willing to recommend me for a second opinion if I feel that I need one ? Does my provider care for me as an individual , or do I feel lumped together with others ? Do I feel comfortable asking questions ?

ARE THE ORDERED SCANS AND BLOOD WORK HELPING ME IN MY CARE OR ARE THEY ORDERED “JUST BECAUSE?” Does my provider explain the reasoning behind these orders ( i . e . what information we ’ re looking for , how this will help progression of my care , etc .)? When the results come back :

Do I have access to them ? If so , are they easy to find ? Are they explained to me in a way that makes sense ?

IS INSURANCE PROVIDING ME COVERAGE OR AM I RECEIVING DENIALS/IS MY PROVIDER HAVING TO DO A PEER-TO-PEER? Does my provider explain the reasoning behind these orders ( i . e . what information we ’ re looking for , how this will help progression of my care , etc .)? When the results come back :

Do I have access to them ? If so , are they easy to find ? Are they explained to me in a way that makes sense ?

DOES MY EMPLOYER OFFER BENEFITS THAT FIT WHAT I NEED? Health insurance Short - term and long - term disability Options for FSA

And / or options for HSA accounts Employee assistance programs

ARE THE MEDICATIONS THAT ARE PRESCRIBED WORKING AS INTENDED?

Do I understand how to use them correctly ? Do I feel comfortable telling my doctor if I have any side effects or need to switch to something else ? Are they affordable or are there alternatives ?

IS A PATIENT PORTAL AVAILABLE AND EASILY ACCESSIBLE? Is it easy to find what I ’ m looking for ? What capabilities does the portal have ? Can I message my provider ? Can I view lab and imaging results ? Can I schedule appointments and see upcoming appointments ? Can I see visit summaries of previous appointments ?

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