Greener Pastures: Personal Finance

I just got a $150 check in the mail from my health insurance company. No, I haven't been sick. It's a reimbursement check for exercising. Well, at least signing up to exercise. I have a gym membership that costs me $330/yr. My Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Health Plan reimburses me $150/year for my attempt at physical fitness. My final cost to belong to my gym: $180/yr.

In an effort to promote healthy habits, many health insurance plans are taking a preventative approach. These benefits vary from company to company, and then within that company, from plan to plan, so you need to check with your provider to find out what they offer.

As an example: I have a BC/BS Health Plan offered through my employer. I pay $1400/year. Here is a list of additional benefits they offer-other than the standard:

- Generic prescriptions savings. This saves me $15 per prescription ( $10 vs $25.)

- On-line pharmacy service. Purchasing a 90 day supply savings, $5. ($25 vs $30.)

- $150 off any health club membership.

- $150 reimbursement to Weight Watchers or any approved Weight Loss Program. I should take advantage of this one.

- 5%-25% off of laser vision correction procedures.

- 10%-25% off of eyeglasses and contact lenses.

- Up to 30% savings on alternative treatments such as massage therapy, acupuncture, nutritional counseling, personal training, pilates and yoga.

- $15 per bicycle safety helmet if you buy through them ( normally these run $40-$80)

- Discounts on child safety products. -20% off an Appalachian Mountain Club membership.

- 50% off a Sonicare Power Toothbrush.

- various discounts on elder care management services.

- On-line tutorials on health through their website.

- 24 hour nurse available over the phone to answer medical questions .

Check out your health plan's additional benefits by calling them, or going to their website. You can also get generic information on health plans by going to the US Dept of Labor's Consumer Health Plan Information website.

You could come across some savings options you weren't aware of.