Tag Archives: Health

Am I sticking to it because it’s costing me?

treadmills
photo by ario_j

It’s been almost three months since I joined a gym. Initially, I was concerned about the 12-month commitment. If my enthusiasm didn’t stick, I might end up stuck with a monthly fee for a gym membership that I wasn’t using.

The good news is, that hasn’t happened. When going to the gym after work became too much of a struggle, I switched to a morning schedule. I’m tired earlier in the evening now, but I love getting my workout out of the way first thing in the morning. I start the day with extra energy, and I don’t have to dread working out after a long day at the office.

This is the most consistent I’ve ever been with a workout regimen. I typically controlled my weight through portion control and healthy eating, but my fitness habits have always been lacking. This is the first time in my life that I’ve worked out every single day for longer than a couple weeks.

I can’t help but wonder if it’s directly related to the $20 being withdrawn from my bank account every month. In the past, I’ve worked out for free either outdoors, in a campus gym, or in an apartment complex gym. This is the first time I’ve paid a monthly fee to work out. Every other time I started out with a lot of enthusiasm, but eventually I started going fewer times per week until I finally stopped going at all.

This time I’ve made it a point to work the gym into my schedule every day. I know I’m paying for it whether I use it or not, and I can’t bear the thought of wasting that money every month.

Tony offered a different theory. My frugality and financial organization have made me more goal-oriented and regimented, he says, which in turn have led me to follow those same principles when it comes to fitness.

I don’t recommend joining a gym just to motivate yourself to work out. If you’re not truly committed from the beginning, all the gym membership will do is add to your expenses. But if you’re like me — strict about money and lax about fitness — and you’re truly committed to a healthier lifestyle, paying for your workouts might just strengthen your resolve.

Losing weight can save you money

Yesterday’s post on how spring cleaning can save you money helped me feel so motivated that I thought I’d try something similar with my other recent goal — losing weight and getting into shape.

I understand the importance of a healthy weight, regular exercise, and a good diet. But I don’t always make the right choices, despite the fact that I’ve been working to lose the weight I gained since my wedding. I’ve only managed to lose 4 pounds in 2 months. :(

Hopefully viewing weight loss from the perspective of how it affects my finances will motivate me to make better choices. So I’ve come up with a few ways that losing weight might help me save money.

Eating healthier can lower your grocery bills.

While healthier foods often carry a higher price than convenience foods, cutting unhealthy snack foods from your budget can drastically lower costs. I don’t go out to dinner a lot anyway, but cutting restaurant meals in an effort to lose weight will also dramatically lower food costs.

Exercise is a cheap hobby.

If you make exercise fun, it can replace expensive activities like movies, shopping, or going out to eat. Instead of spending money to have fun, take a hike, go for a swim, or bike a trail.

Better health can lead to lower medical costs.

There’s a long list of ailments that can be caused or complicated by excess weight — diabetes, heart disease, joint pain, even cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce your risk for these problems. You might not reap the financial benefits today or tomorrow, but in the long run your health care could cost considerably less if you maintain a healthy weight now.

Anyone else have any ideas? Leave them in the comments. I’d love to hear them!

The results of my search for low-priced contact lenses

I agreed to let my optometrist write my prescription for newer lenses instead of the older ones I’ve been using. I like that the new ones are monthly instead of bi-weekly lenses. I also found they were more comfortable than my old lenses, and the office assured me that they would end up costing roughly the same amount per year as my old lenses.

However, I made sure I would be able to change my mind. Since the lens brand is part of the prescription, they told me they could only write it for a certain brand. I was nervous about finding a good deal on the newer lenses, though. I made sure that if I decided after doing some comparison shopping that the new lenses were just too expensive, I could call the optometrist’s office and have them write me a new prescription for the old lenses. They said that would be fine.

Before I left the office, I had them price a year’s supply of contacts with my insurance discount and any rebates. The original price was $250 for a year’s supply or $62.50 per box. A 20 percent discount through my insurance would bring the total to $200.

There was also a $50 mail-in rebate for a year’s supply. However, I would need to mail in my receipt and proof of purchase, and then wait for a check. With discounts and rebates, the total would be $150 or $37.50 per box. Not great, but I guess it could be worse.

When I asked for my prescription, the manager of the optical office said I should let him know if I found a lower price. He said sometimes he’s able to match prices. Good to know, though I didn’t end up taking him up on it.

Next I checked at 1800-contacts.com (which  powers WalMart.com contact lens sales). I was not impressed at all. Their price was $50 per box. They offered an automatic $30 discount for a year’s supply, which would bring the total to $170 or $42.50 per box.

Today I checked Costco. The regular price was $32.25 per box. They also offered an electronic rebate of $20 for a year’s supply. The final price was $109 or $27.25 per box. That’s $90 less than I would have paid out of pocket at the optometrist’s office, and $40 less after all the discounts and rebates they offered.

For the record, I also priced my old lenses just for comparison’s sake. A year’s supply at Costco would have cost $112. So I actually saved $3 by going with the new, high-tech lenses. :)

It seems like a lot of money in a lump sum. However, since they’re monthly lenses, it works out to about $9 a month. It doesn’t seem too expensive when you think about it that way.

I feel bad for all those years that my parents ordered my contact lenses directly through the optometrist. Even with discounts and rebates, it’s usually just not the best deal.

I was also surprised to find out that 1800contacts isn’t as great a bargain as I thought. I think a lot of people order through them without shopping around, because they market themselves as the lowest-priced contacts dealer. 1800contacts were actually more expensive than the optometrist’s office, though. Just thought that was interesting.

Just remember, there’s almost always a better deal out there if you’re willing to do some leg work.

Avoiding unnecessary medical procedures that aren’t covered by insurance

A few months ago, I wrote about a surprise bill I received from my dentist. Even though my insurance covers X-rays, preventative exams & two cleanings a year, I received a bill for an extra X-ray that wasn’t covered. I decided to keep a closer watch on the procedures being performed on me in future visits and ask more questions about my insurance coverage.

Today I had an eye exam. Before the exam, the optometry tech asked if I’d like to have my retina scanned and photographed. The procedure would allow them to see underlying problems with my eyes. I asked if the procedure was necessary for someone my age, and she acknowledged that it probably wasn’t completely necessary, but that they recommend it for patients of all ages.

I was upfront with her. “I’m here for an eye exam and a contact lens fitting,” I said politely. “Can you tell me what my insurance will cover, and please let me know if you plan to perform any procedures that won’t be covered?”

The point isn’t to refuse all treatment that isn’t covered. I just want to know what is and isn’t covered so I can make informed choices about my health care.

I knew that my eye exam was covered, but I wasn’t sure what exactly that included. I also had a feeling that anything related to contact lenses would not be covered.

She looked up my information and told me what I already knew — the eye exam was covered completely, but the “contact lens fitting,” which is necessary to get new contacts, would have to come out of my pocket. That’s ok, because my employer offers an HRA, so I will be reimbursed.

She was surprised to discover that the retina scan was actually covered 100% if I elected to do it. Well, ok. If it’s covered, why not?

I’m glad I asked. If it wasn’t covered, I wouldn’t have wanted to be billed for it. I’m also glad I didn’t refuse the procedure without knowing. I want to take full advantage of my health insurance benefits.

Though the total cost of the exam was over $300, I paid $63. The contact lens fitting was $75, but I’m also a member of a vision discount plan in addition to my insurance, so I received a small discount.

I’m a little miffed about the high cost of the “contact lens fitting.” Basically, all it entailed was the doctor asking me if I’m comfortable with my current lenses, poking a new set of lenses into my eyes, and giving me a sales pitch about the new, more expensive brand. I have another appointment in two weeks, at which point he’ll ask if I like the new brand, give me another sales pitch, and finally write my contact lens prescription. It just seems like $75 is a little ridiculous for that. Whatever, though. I guess that’s the price I pay to wear contacts.

Consider being an active participant in your medical care. Always ask for more information about procedures and insurance coverage. It’s sad but true that many providers will push unnecessary services onto patients despite the fact that they aren’t covered by insurance.

Never refuse a necessary procedure just because you don’t want to pay out of pocket. Your health should always come first. Just be sure that you’re not paying out of pocket for a procedure that you don’t need.

photo by chrismar

Spending money to lose weight … is it worth the investment?

photo by nataliej

All over the blogosphere, I’ve been reading posts with very helpful ideas for frugal weight loss. I’ve even written on the topic myself (basic budgeting can help you lose weight without spending money). I once lost 40 pounds without a gym membership or any special equipment (though I did spend a fortune on convenient diet foods at the grocery store, but that’s another story). I absolutely agree that it’s not necessary to spend money to lose weight.

In the past few weeks, though, I’ve made a few investments in my health to make it easier for me to get in shape. I joined a gym, bought new running shoes, and added healthy snacks to my grocery list.

All of these decisions were pretty tough for me. The last thing I want to do is spend extra money if it’s not necessary. At the same time, getting back in shape is important for my health and my happiness.

When it comes to weight loss and frugality, everyone is different. Back when I had more free time, less stress, and a faster metabolism, these types of investments weren’t necessary to help me lose weight. The past 6 months have been a struggle for me, though, as I battle time constraints, a slowing metabolism, and the absence of expensive diet foods. I made the decision that if I was going to meet my fitness goals, I’d need a little help.

A little over a week into my fitness resolution, I’ve lost 3 pounds. I’m feeling healthier, working out every single night after work (with no painful blisters on my feed), and making healthier decisions about what I eat. I absolutely believe that the investments I made have made all the difference.

If you live far away from your support network, maybe joining a weight loss support group like Weight Watchers would be helpful for you. Maybe you work long shifts and investing in some convenience foods would help you eat healthier. You may have to make some sacrifices in other discretionary spending to balance your budget and reach your financial goals, but you can make it work. With planning and budgeting, it really is possible to have it all.

I’ve been careful not to go overboard, though. We haven’t dipped into our emergency fund to purchase fancy exercise equipment or spent a ton of money on a “get thin fast” diet plan. We also haven’t reduced our debt and savings contributions every month.

So far I’ve spent $20 for the first month of my gym membership, $40 on new shoes, and about $10 extra on groceries for the week (I’m working on reducing that). The shoes were a one-time investment, and I’m wearing them only to the gym to increase their lifespan.

Frugality is as much about balance as it is about budgeting. After weighing the pros and cons, I decided it was worth it to me to spend $30 a month on my health. I also determined that with a few cuts here and there, it doesn’t have to delay our savings and debt goals.

The bottom line is that you have to do what works for you in your budget. If there’s absolutely no room in your budget for diet aids, then you have to improvise. We have a little wiggle room, and I’d rather invest a little money in my health now so I’ll be more likely to live long enough to enjoy the money I’m saving for retirement. :)

Keep tabs on your health insurance claims

We’re all aware of the dangers of identity theft these days. Most people keep a close watch on their bank accounts, credit card statements, and credit reports to ensure they’re not being victimized. This week I had a scare that made me realize my credit report isn’t the only way my identity could be stolen.

A few months ago, I received a letter from my health insurance provider warning me that a recent claim had been denied. Aside from the fact that I hadn’t recently filed a claim, I was alarmed because I had never even been to the hospital where the claim was filed. It was also filed on a date before my insurance was even active.

I called my health insurance company, and they apologized and assured me that it was a mistake that I didn’t have to worry about. I tore up the letter and forgot about it.

Last week, I received another letter with the same message. Only this time, it was for a separate service at the same hospital two months later.

I called my insurance again. This time, they looked up my information and said, “Yes, I see a claim filed at _______ Hospital on August 15.”

It told them I’d never been to _____ Hospital. In fact, it’s not even located in the state where I live.

The woman on the phone verified my name and address, and said that yes, this claim had been filed in my name with my information. She also verified the second claim from two months before, the one that I had been assured was a mistake that I didn’t need to worry about.

“You’ll have to call the hospital and find out why they’re filing claims in your name.”

Um, no. “You’re telling me that it’s my responsibility to look into fraudulent claims? I don’t think so.”

When I said this to the customer service rep, she acted irritated and transferred me to the claim dispute resolution department.

Um, thnx. You probably should have done that in the first place, lady.

After verifying my information, I was put on hold while the dispute resolution rep called the hospital to find out why this was happening.

After 5 minutes on hold, I was relieved to find out that it was a clerical error after all. No one had filed the claim in my name with my information. Someone with the same last name and health insurance provider as me filed a claim, and it was accidentally put into the wrong file in the computer system. They corrected the error and assured me that I wouldn’t receive any more notices.

I’m confused how this could happen not once, but twice. But I’m relieved that it wasn’t an issue of identity theft.

From now on I’ll include my insurance claims information on my watch list. Because I rarely need medical care, I don’t check my insurance information very often. This error was in my file long enough that I started receiving nasty letters about it. It could have led to the denial of legitimate claims if I had a medical emergency at some point before the error was sorted out.

I plan to keep a close watch on my account in the future to ensure that there are no problems with my health insurance when I really need it.

The second most frugal way to buy contacts

The best way to save money on contacts is to wear glasses instead. You can get a great deal at online discount stores like Zenni Optical, and a good pair of glasses will long outlast your supply of contact lenses.

I’ve had the same pair of glasses for two years, and they’re still in great shape.

As much as I’d like to give up contacts, I just can’t get over my discomfort with glasses. My lenses magnify my eyes, making me look pretty silly. So I only wear my glasses in the evening and at home.

I have an eye exam scheduled for this weekend, and it’s time for me to order new contacts. In the past I’ve ordered them from the same place where my exam is done. This time, I’m doing some research to find a better deal.

Here’s what I’m doing to make sure I pay the lowest price possible:

I’m taking my prescription with me.

I’ll have my doctor write a prescription for my contacts so I can shop around online and in stores for the best price.

I’m checking prices everywhere.

I’m not thrilled with the prices at 1800contacts.com, so I’m checking prices at Wal-Mart, Costco, and other places to find the absolute lowest price.

I’m looking for online coupons.

There are a ton of coupons for online contact lens dealers. I’m finding the best ones so I can figure them into the online prices for a real comparison.

By shopping around, I’m hoping I can get a 6-month supply for $75. The best I’ve found so far is $100 for a 6-month supply. Hopefully I can do better than that!

Where do you buy contact lenses?

Frugal snacks to avoid mid-day cravings


photo by JenWaller

As I try to eat healthier, one of the biggest challenges for me is the office break room. Whether it’s a birthday cake, baked goods from a generous colleague, or treats from grateful clients, there is always something to munch on, and it’s seldom healthy.

Frugality and weight management go hand in hand. Unhealthy snacks are generally a drain on the grocery budget anyway, so I never have them around the house. Unfortunately, I can’t control what comes into the office break room.

In the office, I’m particularly vulnerable to succumbing to temptation. As the afternoon drags on, not only do I feel the urge to get up from my desk and do something to give my eyes a break from the computer screen (like snack), but I also feel increasingly hungry now that I’m eating smaller portions.

Two years ago when I lost 40 pounds, I ate six times a day — three small meals and three healthy snacks. Eating small portions frequently not only increases metabolism, but also helps me to avoid the temptation of unhealthy snacks — if I’ve never hungry, I’m not as tempted to eat unhealthy foods.

Unfortunately, adding snacks to my grocery list — even healthy snacks — will mean higher food costs, especially since we’ve cut virtually all extra snack foods from the budget to maintain lower food costs.

I wanted to avoid the extra cost, but now that I’m working out right after work and eating smaller portions, it’s a struggle to make it from breakfast to lunch and lunch to dinner without eating something in between. If I don’t plan ahead and bring healthy snacks, I’m more likely to eat the cakes and chocolates around the office.

Two years ago I filled my cart with pricey convenience foods, like those delicious (and expensive) 100 calorie packs and granola bars. Now that I’m living frugally, I can’t see paying that kind of money for convenience. Even non-convenience foods like fresh fruits and nuts are too expensive.

I spent some time brainstorming for snack ideas that won’t cost a fortune. Here are some of the options I’m considering:

  • Apple slices with peanut butter
  • A slice of bread with a tablespoon of peanut butter
  • Homemade granola with yogurt
  • Homemade apple sauce
  • Raisins
  • Fresh vegetables (purchased on sale)

Can anyone give me any good ideas for frugal healthy snack foods?

Vowing to get back in shape (This time I’m serious. Really.)


photo by yuan2003

I know, I know. I’ve been talking about my post-wedding, office job weight gain for months now. You’d think I’d have done something about it by now. Sigh.

Unfortunately, despite my attempts to eat healthier and get in shape, I’ve failed pretty miserably. I don’t have the guts to weigh myself after a week and a half of holiday overeating, but I’m sure if I did I’d be 10-15 pounds heavier than I was on my wedding day just 7 months ago.

In the spirit of the new year (who doesn’t vow to get healthier every New Year?), I’ve decided to really do it this time. Seriously. Don’t laugh.

I take full responsibility for my own laziness and poor eating habits, but part of my problem in the last six months has been the gym in my apartment complex. I was excited to use the facilities for free (what frugal exerciser wouldn’t love a free gym?). Unfortunately, it’s a tiny room with only a tread mill, stationary bike, and weight machine.

Too often I returned home from work, changed into my workout clothes, and forced myself to go to the gym (getting there is the hardest part for me). When I arrived, I discovered that all of the machines were in use. Some nights I returned 3 or 4 times to find the machines in use by different people before finally giving up.

I’ve made the decision to use some Christmas gift money to join a proper gym.

I’ve found a gym close to my house that allows month-to-month membership fee payment. It costs $15 a month plus a one-time setup fee of $40. If I choose this membership option, I can cancel my membership at any time with no fees.

The other option I’m considering requires a 12-month commitment. I’m hesitant to do this, because even though I have the best of intentions, I don’t want to end up paying a monthly fee for a membership I’m not using. However, the monthly fee is only $5 more per month, and the 12-month commitment carries with it unlimited guest privileges. That means Tony would have access to the gym, too, for just $5 more per month.

I did the math, and if I kept the membership for a full year paying month to month, it would cost $219 for the year. The 12-month membership with guest privileges would end up costing me $268 for the year.

I really don’t like the mindset that many people have when it comes to gym memberships (“If I’m paying for it, then I’ll HAVE to use it”). I find that it almost never works that way. People continue to pay every month even though they never use the gym.

However, I really like the idea of having the option to bring Tony with me to the gym if he wants to work out. If we went together for only 6 months, the rest of the year would pay for itself in the amount we saved. I also think I’d be more likely to stick to it not because I’m paying for it, but because Tony and I would be doing it together.

What do you think? Should I stick with the month-to-month dues or commit for a full year and risk paying for a membership I don’t use?