The primary goal of Wise Health Consumer Month is to teach people how to be more involved in their own health care. Examples of how this can occur are highlighted in the following list.

10 Tips for Being a Wise Health Care Consumer

1. Take the time to carefully select a doctor or health care provider. Ask friends for recommendations. Investigate whether or not the doctor participates with your health insurance plan.
2. Prepare for visits to your health care provider by compiling a list of questions or concerns you wish to discuss.
3. Ask questions about medications you are prescribed. Understand why you are taking it and how it should be taken. Finish all medications, even if you are feeling better.
4. Keep a checklist of all medications you are taking and share this list with your health care provider. This is especially important if you are seeing more than one doctor.
5. Be aware of routine medical tests and examinations, and the recommended times to have them. You may be able to avoid unnecessary and expensive tests.
6. Use home medical tests or businesses such as Nova for routine medical tests when available. They are less costly and can be used without a visit to the doctor.
7. Keep a well stocked home pharmacy with commonly used medicinal items. This can help you deal with common problems and save costly visits to the doctor or emergency room.
8. Understand your health insurance plan. A list of basic questions about what is covered and knowing the answers to these questions will save time and money.
9. Take care of your mental health as well as you would your physical health. States of emotional upset can interfere with daily living routines, and can ultimately affect your physical well being.
10. Keep a list of health agencies handy as a reference. Most are available by phone, fax or email and can serve as a resource for free information and support.

Nova offers a variety of blood testing including a Wellness Profile. Click "TEST MENU" below for more information.

If you would like to learn more about Wise Consumer Health Month and how you can participate in the event Nova has planned for the month of February and March, please call 800-282-5416 for more information.

        

WATER TESTING

FOOD TESTING

DRUG TESTING

INDOOR AIR QUALITY

CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORTS

TOTAL COMPLIANCE MANAGEMENT

MICROBIOLOGICAL TESTING