Take charge of your health

It really is "all about you" when it comes to your health! No matter what your current health status is, you are the most important player on your health care team, so take charge!

When you have a health problem, play an active role in your health care by looking up information about your condition and what diagnostic tests and treatments work best. Being informed will help you understand your health care choices and make you more confident in talking about your options with your doctor.

	Maintaining health — You wouldn't skip regular maintenance on your car, but how many people put off visiting a doctor until they become sick? Talk to your doctor about how often you should get a check up, and what standard tests and procedures you should have based on your age and gender. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality provides "Stay Healthy at Any Age" checklists of recommended health screening for men and women.
	When you have a diagnosis — Do you know what to do after you get a diagnosis? Next steps after diagnosis: finding information and support is a guide from the federal Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality that gives step by step information on what to do if you are diagnosed with a disease or condition. This general advice is useful for people with almost any disease or condition, and includes tips to help you learn more about your specific condition and how it can be treated.
	Know what's covered — Your employer's medical plan description may not be the most stimulating reading, but it could be some of the most important reading you'll do! It pays to know what is covered under your plan, especially if you have a chronic condition such as diabetes. For instance, eye exams are often covered under the medical plan (versus a vision plan) for people with diabetes. Also there might be greater coverage for diabetes-related medications and supplies. Whatever your health status, know what's covered and take full advantage of your medical benefits! Contact your employer's human resources department or your medical plan administrator for information about your coverage.