Unless you’ve got a medical degree in your back pocket, there have probably been times when you’ve been given important information about your health that you weren’t quite sure how to react to. This is normal, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the story. Through your health plan coverage, you have access to support from a care manager, who can help to guide you through medical questions and concerns, from the big decisions to the day-to-day.
There are a number of questions the Optima Health team can answer, but there are a few categories they’re especially prepared to help with.
1) Explaining a new diagnosis
If you’ve recently been diagnosed, especially with a serious or chronic condition, between your healthcare provider, advice from friends, and your own research, you probably have more tips, and genuine information than you know what to do with. That, or you don’t quite know where to get started. In either case, an Optima Health care manager can help talk you through what a diagnosis means and help you better understand the options your provider has recommended.
2) Whether you could use a second opinion
When it comes to some recommendations from healthcare providers, it can be hard to know whether there’s a real choice about how to respond to them. A care manager can talk you through your options, including whether getting a second opinion might be helpful, either for your physical health or for your peace of mind.
3) Managing established conditions
Dealing with a diagnosis can be difficult, but managing an ongoing health condition, even one you’re already familiar with, is a challenge all its own. An Optima Health care manager can work with you to develop strategies for helping you stick to a treatment plan, can help you recognize signs and symptoms that may mean you need to contact your provider, and can also offer suggestions on what to discuss at your next visit with your provider.
4) Lifestyle changes for general health
Optima Health care managers aren’t just there for major, big-picture health conditions. They’re also a great resource for questions about everyday health, including questions about diet, exercise, and minor illnesses. This can include advice about lifestyle choices which can decrease the chances of other health problems later, as well as worries and issues as they come up.
5) Pregnancy
Your care manager can be a major source of guidance and support through the many months of pregnancy—especially if you are at a higher risk of developing certain conditions. Optima Health can connect you with a dedicated nurse care manager who can help provide education, support, and care coordination to ensure that you’re having the healthiest pregnancy possible.
Learn how the care team can help and support you throughout your pregnancy. To reach the Optima Health team, please call 1-800-741-9910, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
