Staying Healthy Beyond Sleep, Nutrition, and Exercise

Image Courtesy of Unsplash.

Guest post by Camille Johnson from The Bereaver

We’ve all heard about the importance of adequate sleep, exercise, and good nutrition for

maintaining good health, and these things matter. However, there are other components to

remaining healthy, and being an advocate for yourself is one of them.

Stay current with administrative tasks

Health insurance can be complex, and it’s essential that you understand how yours works.

Know your deductible, your monthly premium, and whether you must stay within a particular

network of healthcare providers. Learn about whether some medical procedures or

appointments require pre-approval. What you don’t know can cost you a great deal, so make

sure to ask questions and read the fine print. Take time to review your medical bills for errors,

even if you’ve already paid them because mistakes occasionally happen. If you have a Health

Savings Account (HSA), learn about how it works and what expenses you can cover with it.

Keep your own copy of medical records

Keeping your own file of medical records can save you time and trouble. Of course, your

healthcare provider keeps records, but if you need to get a second opinion or change providers

you’ll be glad you have your own copies of everything. You can upload copies of scans, x-rays,

and other medical images, as well as office visit summaries and bills. A free online tool can be

used to merge all the separate elements into one file. It’s great if you have all the items you

need once you’re ready to combine video online, but if you get additional images later, these

can be added to the original compilation.

Seek the care you need

Finding the best doctor for yourself can take some effort. Ask friends and family for

recommendations, and read online reviews. Check to be sure that they treat the issues you are

concerned about, that their location works for you, and of course, you’ll want someone who

accepts your insurance. We’d all like to think that “the doctor knows best” and will be the

ultimate authority on what care we need and how best to get it. Sometimes this is the case. And

sometimes, the patient must act on their own behalf and get a second or even third opinion. If

you’re concerned about addressing multiple issues or trying to remember the doctor’s

instructions, you might take a friend or family member along to your appointment. Don’t hesitate

to ask your provider about things that you can do at homie to increase your wellness.

Find the best living situation

Sometimes the place we live in can be a predictor of good health outcomes. Those with special

needs may want to be in an assisted living facility, a nursing home, or a retirement community. If

you have health concerns that need skilled nursing and /or care beyond business hours, you

may want to consider a nursing home. Before selecting a place, be sure to visit, read reviews

online, and find out about waiting lists, accreditation, reports on the facility, and costs and

payment options.

Although most of us would like to think we do a good job of looking out for our own best

interests, sometimes people are timid about asking medical questions or documenting

discussions and diagnoses. It’s not only OK to ask questions, it’s a great way to be fully