8 Unexpected Things Your Health Insurance Might Offer for Free

Everyone knows that health insurance can help lower medical bills. But it is easy to overlook some less publicized perks that can save you even more money and keep more money in your bank account.

Health insurance providers have been getting more creative about offering customer benefits. So, if you don’t read the fine print on your plan, you might be missing out.

Following are some overlooked extras that your health insurance plan might provide.

By federal law, most health insurance companies must provide a selection of preventative care benefits for free to their policyholders. The savings can have a significant financial impact on those who have such coverage.

The federal government’s Healthcare.gov website details which preventative care services must be free for all adults, and specifically for women and children.

Since these services are available for free, it can be worth it to spend the time to take advantage of this perk that benefits both your health and your wallet.

Some health care providers offer free or discounted fitness classes and gym memberships for members.

Saving money on fitness helps free up cash that can be used elsewhere. So, if you’ve ever wanted to try a fitness class but worry about the price tag, this perk is for you.

Pro tip: Taking advantage of these perks means you will spend less out of pocket. Use those savings to make 2023 the year you crush your debts and turn your finances around.

If you prefer to work out at home, check to see if your health insurance company offers access to digital workouts.

For example, many Kaiser Permanente plans offer access to ClassPass, which gives you access to thousands of gyms and studios that provide classes ranging from yoga and cardio to Pilates.

It’s an excellent way to get your workout in without leaving home. Plus, it’s free.

Some health insurance companies offer free or discounted virtual consultations with doctors. This can be a great perk if you have a quick question or can’t attend an in-person appointment.

The fact that you are saving money on the cost of gas or public transportation just adds to your savings.

Some health insurance plans motivate their policyholders to pursue better health by offering rewards or points for each healthy action an individual completes.

For example, UnitedHealthcare's Rally website and mobile app provides Rally coins when you engage in specific healthy behaviors. You then use the coins to earn rewards.

A relaxed mind can help improve the health of the rest of your body. Some health insurance companies offer free access to meditation apps.

If your provider offers this perk, it’s a great way to save money on a subscription you might already have. Plus, it can boost calm and increase your well-being throughout the day.

Federal law requires most health insurance plans to offer some level of coverage for smoking cessation programs. This includes medications such as nicotine inhalers and individual counseling with no cost-sharing requirement.

You can use these resources if quitting has been on your to-do list or is a future goal.

Suppose you have specific health goals such as reducing stress. In that case, free wellness coaching from your health insurance provider might be able to help.

For example, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield -- which serves Maryland, the District of Columbia and parts of Virginia -- offers free health coaching via the phone.

Your health insurance provider might offer some of the perks on this list. It’s always a good idea to check what is available.

So, inquire about the free services your health insurance company provides. It’s time to stop throwing away money and start reaping the benefits your insurer is willing to provide.