2020 has been a year for the record books. You’re living through a global pandemic, you may have experienced a super rare storm called a derecho, and you went through the highs and lows of a turbulent political election.
Let’s be honest, 2020 has been difficult for everyone. And, if you’ve found yourself having a hard time achieving your health and wellness goals, you’re not alone. Instead of trying the latest eating plan or exercise trend, maybe you’ve had to adjust to working from home, entertaining your kids for hours or even days on end, cooking from pantry staples because you’re quarantining at home, or caring for loved ones. No matter what you’ve gone through this year, it likely has you looking forward to what 2021 has in store.
As we look toward next year, it’s helpful to reflect. What can we learn from the past? And, what tips can be used in the future to make our lives a little easier? Whatever you hope to see in 2021, Blue is here to help you live healthier and better understand health insurance. To wrap up 2020, let’s look at the top-clicked Blue stories from the last twelve months.
Our top-clicked stories of 2020
8 weight loss tricks that have nothing to do with dieting
If one of your 2021 New Year’s resolutions is to lose weight, dietitians have this advice: “Don’t go on a diet.” Fixating on weight loss often backfires. So instead, consider more simple switches to make the bigger difference. We have eight of them to get you ready for the new year.
Do you need a COVID test?
More than one million Iowans External Site and half a million South Dakotans External Site have already been tested for COVID-19. And, with coronavirus still surging in many areas of the country, testing rates aren’t expected to let up anytime soon. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have been exposed to the virus, you might find yourself in need of a test. In general, there are three ways you can get tested for COVID. In addition to community-based testing, if you’re a Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield member, a test is covered by your health insurance benefits as long as it has been ordered by your doctor.
Calm your anxious mind during the COVID-19 pandemic
The pandemic has taken its toll on our emotions. From stress and anxiety to symptoms of depression, many people are searching for ways to calm their mind. To get started today, consider simple activities like limiting your exposure to the news, a Zoom call with a friend to combat loneliness, or do some meditation or deep breathing.
Traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic
The pandemic has kept our travel plans on hold for the most part in 2020. But, if you do travel during the pandemic, it’s important to keep some things in mind to stay healthy. Do a little research about where you’re going and always keep the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations External Site for avoiding the virus in mind, like staying away from crowds, wearing a mask, and washing your hands frequently. Want to forego traveling altogether right now? We’ve got you covered there, too, with some “vacations” to try during the pandemic.
How Medicare changes may impact you
At the beginning of 2020, a law called the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) External Site went into effect, which changed the way health care providers are paid. If you’re enrolled in Medicare or will soon be eligible for coverage, you may still be wondering how or if this change affects you. In this popular article, we answer your top questions on MACRA and its impact on Plan F.
Make sure you’re up-to-date in 2021
One of the best ways to make sure you’re ready for 2021? Get signed up for the Blue e-newsletter! Each month, you get an email straight to your inbox highlighting our top picks to help you live healthier and better understand health insurance.
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