I often hear people say they’re hesitant to use their benefits early in the year because they worry they might need them more later. Whether you have extended healthcare benefits through your employer, a government plan (like Alberta’s chiropractic coverage for seniors), or private insurance, knowing how to maximize your coverage can help you save time, money, and stress. Here are my top three tips to help you get the most out of your healthcare insurance every year!

1) Understand Your Coverage Details

One of the key steps to maximizing your healthcare insurance benefits is understanding the details of your insurance plan. Start by reviewing your plan’s annual limits and the reasonable & customary fees per appointment. This will help you determine the exact number of treatments covered per year for each healthcare provider covered under your plan. Many insurance plans include services such as chiropractic care, custom orthotics, physiotherapy, massage therapy, and acupuncture. Knowing what’s available allows you to plan effectively, make informed decisions, and avoid unexpected costs.

2) Develop a Strategic Year-Round Healthcare Plan

Once you know your coverage limits, you can work with your healthcare providers—including chiropractors, physiotherapists, massage therapists, and acupuncturists—to develop a personalized management plan. Scheduling your treatments strategically ensures continuous care throughout the year. For example, if your plan covers visits to these providers once per month, you might consider rotating these services weekly to maintain consistent well-being rather than using all your benefits early in the year and having gaps in care later on. This proactive approach keeps your treatments aligned with your health goals and maximizes your benefits.

3) Incorporate Exercise and Maintenance Care Strategies

Many healthcare providers recommend a maintenance care plan once acute pain is under control. This makes sense, considering that in Canada, about 30% of adults experience recurring low back pain within six months, and around 40% have a recurrence within a year, of their first episode.¹ To get the most out of a maintenance care plan—such as monthly treatments—it’s essential to follow prescribed exercises and rehabilitation programs. This helps maintain the benefits of your treatments between visits, leading to better long-term outcomes and overall wellness.

By following these strategies, you can make sure you’re getting the most out of your healthcare benefits year after year, while keeping your out-of-pocket expenses low. A little planning and knowledge go a long way in managing your health and finances wisely!

Want to make the most of your extended healthcare benefits? Along with chiropractic care, Dr. Rebecca also offers custom orthotics and the GLA:D Back Program. Get in touch today to learn more!