Your End-of-Year Health Checklist to Maximize Insurance Benefits

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Health and Wellness
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Amid the holiday festivities and the year coming to an end, it’s easy to put your health in the backseat. But taking a moment for your well-being ensures you stay healthy, enjoy time with loved ones and make the most of your health insurance benefits before the year ends.

Many health plans use a calendar-year benefit period, so deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums may reset on January 1. Review your plan details before scheduling an annual wellness exam or other care.

Keep reading to learn more about how to maximize your insurance benefits by using our checklist and how we can partner with you to get the most out of your health care.

End-of-Year Health Checklist

We’ve put together an end-of-year health checklist to help you get the most out of your health benefits and know which primary care services or other procedures to schedule before December 31.

  • Schedule Your Annual Wellness Visit

    • A preventive wellness primary care appointment is often fully covered by your health insurance provider.

      This is a great opportunity to establish care, discuss your healthy habits goals for the new year and get referrals for specialists for potential health problems.

  • Catch Up on Screenings and Routine Tests
    • Visit your primary care provider (PCP) to test for high blood pressure, high cholesterol and glucose A1C.

    • Schedule routine health screening tests like mammograms, colonoscopies, other cancer screenings, eye exams, hearing tests, bone density scans and Pap smears.

      Check if you’re up to date on current vaccinations, including your annual flu shot.

  • Complete Delayed Follow-Up Appointments or Lab Work
    • If your PCP recommended labs earlier in the year, review your plan’s deductible, network and coverage details before scheduling them.
  • Refill or Reassess Prescriptions

    • Check with your PCP or current health care provider if you’re due for medication reviews or refills before the end of the year.

      Ask your doctor, pharmacist or health insurance provider about 90-day supply options or prescription formulary changes for the upcoming year.

  • Address Any Lingering Symptoms or Concerns
    • If you’re experiencing mild, lingering symptoms, don’t leave them untreated. Contact your health care provider and review your plan’s coverage before scheduling care.
  • Consider Referrals or Specialist Visits
    • If your primary care provider recommends a specialist, check your plan’s referral, authorization, network and cost requirements before scheduling.
  • Use Your Mental Health or Wellness Benefits
    • Many health insurance plans offer coverage for therapy sessions, wellness coaching or behavioral health support. Ask your provider for a referral.

FSAs and HSAs

Year-end rules differ for flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs).

Both FSAs and HSAs allow you to contribute pre-tax dollars from your paycheck to help pay for medical costs throughout the year, like out-of-pocket copays and prescriptions, as well as vision and dental care. However, they differ in how long you have to use the funds:

  • FSAs are generally use-it-or-lose-it arrangements, but some plans offer a carryover or grace period. Check with your employer or plan administrator for your deadline and rules.
  • HSA balances generally remain in your account and carry over from year to year.

Review your health plan documents and contact your employer, plan administrator or HSA trustee if you have questions.

How Primary Care Makes It Easy

At AdventHealth, we make it easy for you to use your health insurance benefits by offering:

  • A connected network of providers that can help you maximize your benefits and feel confident going into the new year
  • Easy online scheduling
  • Minor in-office procedures
  • Virtual appointments

Your share of health care costs depends on your plan, deductible, network and the services you receive. Review your benefits before scheduling care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Your End-of-Year Health Checklist

What’s the best time to use my insurance benefits?

That depends on how quickly you meet your deductible and the type of healthcare you need throughout the year. However, the best time to use your health insurance is when you need to address health issues with a healthcare provider.

How can I plan for next year’s healthcare expenses?

Review your deductible, out-of-pocket maximum, network and coverage details, along with your FSA balance. HSA balances generally carry over, while FSA deadlines depend on the plan.

Does Medicare cover end-of-year preventive care?

Medicare Part B covers a yearly wellness visit for eligible members once every 12 months. Coverage and costs for screenings, vaccines and additional services vary, so review Medicare guidance and your plan before scheduling care.

Do FSA funds expire?

FSAs are generally use-it-or-lose-it arrangements, but some plans offer a carryover or grace period. Check with your employer or plan administrator for your specific deadline and rules.

What preventive screenings or procedures should I schedule before my deductible resets?

Ask your health care provider which services are appropriate for you, including men’s health screenings, women’s health screenings, well-woman exams, checkups, lab work, medication reviews or specialist referrals. Learn about the different types of health screenings you may want to discuss. Review coverage and costs with your plan, and discuss new risk factors or lifestyle changes with your provider to build a personalized plan.

Can I schedule elective procedures before the end of the year?

You can ask about scheduling an elective procedure before year-end, but coverage, authorization, network rules and your remaining deductible or out-of-pocket maximum determine your cost. Confirm the details with your insurer and care team before scheduling.

Your Dedicated Health Care Partner

Whether you’re catching up on routine care or checking up on a lingering concern, we’re here to help. Learn more about AdventHealth primary care services and find care near you.

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