USING YOUR BENEFITS: 5 tips to maximize your benefits AND your health

1. Use in-network providers and $ave
Know your in-network providers. No matter which healthcare option you're in, it's in your best interest to use in-network providers. UHC, BCBS and Caterpillar have negotiated significant discounts with certain providers. The choice is yours, but if you're enrolled in a PPO or CDHP option and use an out-of-network provider, you'll have to pay a much higher portion of the bill. If you're enrolled in the BCBS National EPO option and use an out-of-network provider, you'll have to pay ALL of the bill.

2. Get your annual check-up (they're not just for kids!)
Certain wellness and preventive care services are 100% covered if you use an in-network provider. That means you don't have to pay co-pays or co-insurance for them. Save money, save time and save your health with early detection and prevention by making sure to:

• Schedule annual wellness exams and regular dental cleanings
• Get recommended screenings and immunizations

3. Investigate your treatment options
Talk with your doctor - there's nothing wrong with asking questions.

• What are the risks of this test/drug/procedure?
• Are there other options?
• How much does it cost? (You may need to contact UHC, BCBS or OptumRx for this one.) Just like any other major expense, it doesn't hurt to do price comparisons. (Tip: the new Castlight tool may be able to help!)
• For prescriptions: Is there a generic version that would work as well as the brand version?

4. Know where to go and when
For routine, preventive or non-urgent care, it's best to see your primary care physician. And, of course, when you're experiencing a life-threatening illness or injury, call 911 and/or go to the emergency room.

But when your condition isn't an emergency and you can't get in to your regular doctor's office, consider this less-expensive option: convenience care/urgent care clinics. Review your healthcare plan's provider directory to see which clinics are in your network.

5. Participate in wellness offerings at work

• Caterpillar Medical provides free wellness exams to eligible employees at certain ages.
• Wellness Services offers several health and wellness programs and resources through the year, such as Ask a Dietitian, monthly health campaigns and on-site programs.
• Many Caterpillar facilities offer annual flu shot clinics.
• The Employee Assistance Program offers free, confidential personal support resources for work/life issues.