Year-End Healthcare: Checking In on Your Goals (And Making New Ones)
Published by
CONTRAVE Care Team
on
Many of us set health-focused goals for the new year, like exercising regularly, improving our diet, or losing weight. Taking some time at the end of the year to address any health needs can give you momentum for your journey for the coming year.
The holidays can be busy for some people, but you may be surprised to find more flexibility in your schedule than you may think to prioritize your health checklist. Here are some elements of end-of-year healthcare you can review:
Check Your Healthcare Coverage and Accounts
Whether you have health insurance through your work or the government, the end of the year is the time to make sure you’re satisfied with your coverage and to use any remaining benefits.
If you’ve met your deductible or have money left in your Flexible Spending Account (FSA), now’s the time to use or lose these benefits. (If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA), your funds should roll over to next year—but don't use this as an excuse to roll over prioritizing your health to next year!) By getting appointments and health-related purchases in before year’s end, you’ll avoid leaving any funds unused. Some care providers even offer end-of-year discounts to help people maximize their benefits.
Prescription coverage can also change from year to year. If you take CONTRAVE or any other medications, now is a great time to look at your prescription coverage for the coming year. Reviewing your benefits could save you money on essential prescriptions. (Our savings program may help make CONTRAVE more affordable, too.)
Schedule Important Appointments and Health Screenings
Seeing your healthcare providers before the new year can help you identify where you’re at with your health goals. Consider these appointments a chance to take a holistic look at your health and get ready to set new health goals with expert guidance and support.
This is particularly valuable if you’re planning to make lifestyle changes, like increasing physical activity or adjusting your diet to support weight loss or a healthier lifestyle. You can also get screenings for common health issues, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose tests. Women’s health appointments and screening are also important, no matter your age.
Getting in touch with your healthcare provider and setting up appointments for the coming year helps ensure that your health goals remain top-of-mind. It’s also a good time to ask your provider about any recommended vaccines. Staying healthy can help you stay active and on track with your health goals, uninterrupted.
Plan for Next Year’s Weight Loss Journey
If you’re considering weight loss medications as part of your health journey, now is a good time to talk with your provider. Discussing prescription options can help you understand what’s available and what might work best given your health history and goals. For some, medications like CONTRAVE can offer extra support for weight management when combined with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise.
Your provider can review your medical history, answer your questions, and even check your insurance coverage so you know what to expect. Starting the conversation now ensures you’re prepared to make informed decisions and kick off the new year with a solid plan for success.
Tip: Too busy this holiday season to fit in many trips to the doctor? Consider scheduling appointments now for early next year for your wellness visits, screenings, and even any other health check-ins.
Holidays are the perfect time to give the gift of health—so be sure to prioritize your own as the year wraps up. By using your healthcare benefits, being proactive about check-ups, and being confident about discussing your health goals with providers, you’ll already have a headstart on next year’s wellness!
CON-2253-001 11/24