Back to School = Back to Germs: What Parents Need to Know About Health Insurance This Fall
Now that school’s back in session (can I get an amen?), many parents are breathing a sigh of relief. But while the summer chaos may be behind us, there’s a new season approaching—and I’m not talking about fall. I’m talking about cold, flu, and virus season. 🦠
Kids are back in classrooms, sharing pencils, high-fives, and yes…germs. So let’s talk about how your health insurance works when your kiddo inevitably gets sick, and what you can do to protect your family and your wallet.
Telehealth: Your First Line of Defense
Did you know many insurance plans include telehealth (or “televisits”) at no extra cost or just a small copay? You can also purchase telehealth services separately.
✔️ Available 24/7
✔️ No waiting rooms
✔️ Get prescriptions sent straight to your pharmacy
✔️ Great for things like fevers, sore throats, pink eye, rashes
This is a game-changer, especially if your pediatrician’s office is booked out or it’s the weekend. Don’t wait until Monday—hop on a quick telehealth visit and get your child back to feeling better fast.
When to Use Primary Care or Urgent Care
Of course, you can always go to your regular primary care doctor—you’ll just pay the standard office visit copay. But if it’s after hours or you need immediate care, urgent care is your next best bet.
💡 Pro tip: Check your insurance portal for in-network urgent care clinics near you, and write them down (stick it on your fridge if you’re old school like me). Some clinics that say “urgent care” switch to ER billing rates after 6 PM, so double-check first!
ER Visits = Only for Real Emergencies 🚑
Please—don’t go to the ER unless it’s truly an emergency.
That means:
🚨 Chest pain
🚨 Trouble breathing
🚨 Severe bleeding
🚨 Broken bones
Otherwise, urgent care or telehealth is a safer bet financially. Even with a zero-deductible plan, most ER visits come with copays upwards of $2,000. Compare that to a $75 or $100 urgent care visit, and the choice is pretty clear.
Preventive Measures to Stay Healthy This School Year
The best way to avoid all of this? Boost your immunity.
I’m a huge fan of dōTERRA products to help keep our household healthy. From On Guard immunity blends to lavender and oils that reduce stress (because yes—stressed kids = sick kids), these tools are an easy way to protect your family naturally.
🛒 Want 25% off? Use my link to enroll as a wholesale customer. https://referral.doterra.me/12647163
✔ No auto-ship required
✔ Order when you need it
✔ Earn rewards if you want to subscribe later
Final Thoughts
Back-to-school season is fun and exciting—but don’t let illness catch you off guard. Be proactive, know how your insurance works, and stock up on wellness tools that help your family thrive all year long.
Need help navigating your health plan or want to make sure your coverage works for your whole family?
📅 Schedule a free consultation at jkappconsulting.com.
