We decided to enroll in a Lumenos HRA primarily based on cost - the Lumenos plan had the same monthly payroll deduction as the former PPO, and we calculated that the out-of-pocket costs would be moderately lower. That was the extent of our expectations. We were in for a surprise.
First, somehow those health dollars became ours. We had a pot of money that we could use or save for medical care. So the smorgasbord approach to health care was over (all you can get for one co-pay). Who new how expensive cholesterol drugs were? Certainly not us. Being frugal former New Englanders, we decided to substitute diet and exercise for dollars (drugs). And it’s working. Our BMI has moved into the healthy range, increasing self-esteem and energy. Well, there is the downside of having to buy entirely new wardrobes.
Second, this health insurance company actually invited us to dinner. And then actually listened to what we said. There must be something in the water. I’m beginning to think that Lumenos is some sort of cult. Has anyone seen Dr. Mike jumping up and down on Oprah’s sofa? I think they’re turning me into a Lumenos poster child.
And so a change in health plan based primarily on cost has turned into a change to healthy lifestyles.
How have your Lumenos experiences been?
Vic Maslanka, Lumenos consumer