The beginning of the new year is a great time to set yourself up for success with your health plan. Many people stop at plan selection and miss opportunities to make the most of their benefits, leading to gaps in care and unnecessary expenses.
Let’s walk through four key steps to help you prepare for your healthiest year yet.
Start the Year Off Right: Your Health Plan Action Steps
1. Choose Your Primary Care Provider (PCP)
Whether you changed plans or stayed with the same one, choosing (or confirming) your PCP ensures you have a trusted partner to coordinate your care and help you get the most from your benefits.
You can do this by:
- Using the provider search tool at VEBAOnline.com/Benefit-Contacts/.
- Contacting The California Schools VEBA Advocacy Team at 888-276-0250 or through the online form at VEBAOnline.com/Contact.
Have the following information handy to make things easier:
- Name
- Date of Birth or Social Security Number
- Medical Group
Note: If you don’t select a PCP, one will be assigned to you automatically. You can change your PCP and medical group anytime during the year, but you cannot change your benefits plan until the next Open Enrollment period.
Bonus Tip: Transfer Your Medical Records
- If you’re changing providers, request a medical records transfer early. This keeps your care consistent and avoids delays in treatment.
2. Schedule Your Preventative Care Appointments
Preventative care visits are important for early detection and your long-term wellness. During your visit, your doctor will recommend screenings and tests based on your age, gender, health status, and family history.
Read this blog post to learn more about preventative care and what health screenings you might be due for.
3. Review Your Benefits
Even if you’re familiar with your plan, it’s smart to revisit your Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) at the start of the year. It provides a clear overview of your coverage provided by a health plan. We put together a guide defining terms, sections, and information you’ll find in there. View the guide here. Knowing your plan’s coverage and benefits will help you get the most from your benefits and save you money.
4. Ask About Continuity of Care
If you’re switching plans and have ongoing health needs, ask your new plan about continuity of care. This ensures you can continue seeing your current provider for certain conditions, including:
- Acute conditions like pneumonia
- Serious chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes or heart disease)
- Pregnancy
- Terminal illness
- Care for a child under age 3
- Scheduled surgeries or procedures
Each condition has a different continuity period, so contact your insurance provider early in the year to avoid disruptions in care. This helps avoid treatment delays and ensures you receive consistent care during your transition.
Bonus Tip: Confirm or Update Your Contact Information
- Make sure your health plan has your current address, phone number, and email address. Accurate information helps ensure claims process smoothly, and you receive important plan updates.
Take Charge of Your Health with Personalized Support and Resources
Once your benefits are selected, make the most of the resources available to you. Whether you need guidance or practical tools, CalVEBA offers support to help you thrive.
- Whole Health Coaching: Partner with a coach to create a plan that fits your unique needs, helping you improve your fitness, nutrition, and overall well-being. Get started here.
- Health and Wellness Toolkits: Access practical resources that offer strategies for managing stress, improving nutrition, and staying active. Explore toolkits here.
We’re Here to Help
The Advocacy Team is available year-round to help you navigate the health care system—from accessing care and handling referrals and prior authorizations to maximizing your CalVEBA benefits.
If you have any questions, contact The Advocacy Team at 888-276-0250 or visit us online at VEBAOnline.com/Contact. For urgent requests, use the “Urgent” box on the contact form.
Support for Life Changes
If you’re facing a major life transition, consider joining our Navigating Life Transitions program. This six-week group course offers support, tools, and guidance from a licensed therapist to help you move forward with confidence.
