3 minute read
Tips to Make Getting Healthy Easier
BY MAUREEN SHELLY
Health problems are never easy. But they are even more difficult when you have no experience with the American health care system.
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Read our guide to dealing with common health situations with confidence so you can stay strong for your family.
• Find a doctor.
In most areas, you have a choice of doctors. For general health care, you need a primary care doctor, or PCP, who can treat routine symptoms and injuries.
Aetna Better Health of New Jersey (Aetna) members can use the Find a Provider tool. You can filter results by language spoken, handicap accessible, specialty and more. • Get help in your language.
If your English isn’t fluent, your doctor may not understand all your symptoms. And you may not understand all the doctor’s instructions. Ask your doctor, pharmacy, or insurance company about translation services. Aetna members can call 1-855-232-3596 (TTY 711) for help. • Get transportation.
If getting to the doctor’s office is difficult, ask your doctor or insurance company about free or low-cost transportation options. Aetna members can get help arranging travel through Logisticare. • Prepare for your visit.
The day before your visit, write down anything you want to discuss with your doctor, starting what’s the most important. Include your symptoms, when they began, all your medications (including vitamins and traditional medicines), and your questions and concerns. • Answer questions honestly.
When you see the doctor, it’s normal for them to ask about personal issues that can affect your health. Your privacy is protected by law; the doctor cannot discuss your health information with anyone without your permission. Aetna members can get help quitting smoking, with drug and alcohol use, and with emotional support. Your doctor can recommend a counselor and other mental health resources. Counseling and needed medication are also covered through Aetna. • Information you need.
It’s good to ask questions, express doubt, make your own medical decisions, and expect good communication with your doctors and nurses. Don’t be afraid to find another doctor if you don’t feel comfortable with your first choice.
Consider bringing a loved one to take notes. A second set of ears can help you gather information about your diagnosis and treatment. • Learn what to do between appointments.
Ask your doctor what the best way is to get in touch – phone, email, or online patient portal – in case you have a question or problem. Aetna can also help you find out more about a diagnosis or treatment. • Manage medications.
Contact your doctor if you experience side effects (unpleasant symptoms) from a new prescription. Often, your doctor can lower your dose or change the drug. You can also discuss side effects and alternative drugs with the pharmacist where you pick up your medication.
Talk to your doctor before stopping any medication. Some prescription drugs take weeks or months before you feel better.
Prescription drugs are covered through Aetna including many over-the-counter drugs. • Be proactive about your health.
According to the World Health Organization, 80% of chronic diseases are preventable. That means eating fresh foods, exercising, and not smoking really do help prevent disease.
Take advantage of preventive visits and tests. It’s normal to see your doctor at least once a year, even if you’re not sick. This is called preventive care. Aetna covers checkup visits, dental care, eye exams and glasses, and important health tests.
