Flu Shots: Your Best Bet for Reducing Prescription Use and Saving Money
| 2 min read
Now is the perfect time to prepare yourself for flu season. It is the peak of flu season, which kicked off in October and is strongest between December and February. In fact, it’s estimated that last year’s flu season accounted for 710,000 people in the U.S. being hospitalized. The good news is, for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network members, getting your flu shot is easier than ever.
Getting an annual flu shot is an essential part of staying healthy through every season. By getting it, you lower your risk of becoming infected with the strain of the virus experts believe will be most common. As a bonus, it also helps prevent the spread of the flu to people you are frequently around.
People who got a flu shot are usually about 20 percent less likely to seek medical care from a doctor for the flu than those who don’t, according to the CDC. And by not getting sick, you’ll save time and money (on top of just feeling better).
If you’re ready for your annual flu shot, be sure to discuss it with a pharmacist or your primary doctor.
Visit a participating pharmacy with your member ID card to get your flu shot today. While most pharmacies will accept your coverage, be sure to ask before you get your vaccine. Then, write down the date and let your doctor know at your next appointment so he or she can keep your immunization chart up to date — and you healthy.
You can also schedule an appointment with your primary doctor to get one. Your office visit copayment may apply.
For Blue Cross members without BCBSM pharmacy coverage: Visit bcbsm.com/preventflu to see a list of immunizing pharmacies that provide vaccines under your medical coverage.
For more information about the flu shot, check out these posts:
