HEALTHY LIVING

The stumbling economy may make this year's "open enrollment" decisions more important than ever for many workers.

Autumn is the season when millions of employees pick a health plan. And typically, they face an increase in their monthly premium costs for health insurance, and often, a rise in deductibles and co-pays for medical services.

The economic downturn, meanwhile, is driving many Americans to cut back on spending.

Benefits experts say that amid this financial anxiety, workers should research their choices and become savvy consumers, getting the most out of their health-care dollars.

Here are some enrollment tips:

Do Your Homework

Don't assume the health plan you chose this year will fit your needs next year. Compare your options. Read the fine print. Assess what worked for you this year and what didn't. Were the doctors you saw covered under your plan? How much did you spend in out-of-pocket costs?

Trade-Offs

If you have a choice of health plans, determine your out-ofpocket costs and monthly premium costs. Figure out whether it makes sense to pay a higher premium for lower out-of-pocket costs, or vice versa. Plans with low premiums often have high deductibles, which can be onerous for some workers.

Coverage

Factor in your medical conditions when making your choices. Prescription-drug coverage can vary on co-pays and which drugs are approved. Dental, vision and disability coverages are important items to consider.

Tax-Free Accounts

Many employers offer flexible spending accounts for medical expenses, and dependent-care spending accounts. These can give you big tax advantages because contributions are made before your paycheck is taxed.

Life Changes

Update your benefits to reflect a significant change in your life, such as marriage, birth, adoption and divorce.

Wellness

Your employer may offer smokingcessation programs, discounted gym memberships and weight-management seminars. Some companies also provide incentives, such as credits or lower deductibles, if you join a wellness program. Other firms offer incentives for filling out a health-risk questionnaire. Wellness can be a win-win for both you and your company.

Get Help

Some employers offer online tools to help you compare benefits options. Take advantage of this help. Also, don't be afraid to ask questions about your choices.

Sources: Hewitt Associates, Mercer, MetLife, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia, Guardian.