The following information is for educational purposes only. There is no guarantee of coverage promised or express warranty implied. Please contact us if you have any questions.

Austin, Texas: Is Health Insurance on Your Mind?

Is Disability Insurance For You?

The third largest cause of death in the United States, ranking behind heart disease and cancer, is stroke. It is also the leading cause of long-term disability insurance. Do you have a Short or Long Term Disability Policy? Factors that place you at a higher risk of suffering a stroke include: high cholesterol and blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity and lack of physical exercise. Even so, keeping fit doesn't mean you're out of danger. Quick treatment can be the key to successful recovery. Know the warning signs:

• Numbness/weakness on one side of the body
• Confusion or trouble speaking
• Problems with coordination, balance, or vision
• Severe headache with no known cause
  

What Do You Know About Balance Billing?

Balance billing for health insurance Expenses occurs when an out-of-network (or non-contracted) physician or provider bills a person for the difference between the amount the health insurance reimburses them and the amount the provider feels is adequate reimbursement. In the state of Texas, in-network providers are not allowed to balance bill.

It is extremely important for you to understand your health insurance plan and the way your benefits are paid in and out of network. The best way to avoid balance billing is to ensure you are treated by an in-network physician and at an in-network facility. Most health insurance plans include allowances for emergency situations, when you may not be able to select the provider or facility where you receive treatment.

A Healthy Start Reduces Your Health Insurance Costs:

Have you already broken a few of those New Year's resolutions? Or are you preparing for new ones to break? The best time to start fresh is today. Here are a few simple things you can do to get you started:

• Drink More Water - Our bodies lose oxygen while we sleep and water is one of the best ways to replenish our cells, especially in the morning.
  Target = 1 pint (4 c.)
• Not Just an Apple a Day - Fresh fruit is jam packed with vitamins, nutrition and sugar (the natural kind) that your body needs. Make it your snack of choice. Add some low or non-fat yogurt and pretend it's that gooey dessert you didn't need to order.
  Target = 1.5 to 2 c. (for the average adult)
• Ditch the Quick - When you have no other choice by the vending machine or fast food joint, choose well.
  Target = salads, grilled chicken, pretzels, nuts
• Skip the Elevator - take the stairs or walk to your co-worker's office rather than calling.
  Target = use every opportunity to get moving