Health insurance can be expensive, and as of 2021, there is no longer a federal requirement that you have to buy health insurance. You will not face fines for not carrying coverage.  

Choosing to go uninsured isn’t recommended—and for a good reason. The average cost of health insurance for a single person in the U.S. is around $495 a year (about $41.25 a month), while the average cost for an American family is around $1,779 a year (about $148.25 a month). This may seem expensive, but it’s critical to compare health insurance premiums to the cost benefits you will receive from buying a policy. 

The True Cost of Health Care

Getting health insurance is encouraged due to the expensive nature of health care services today. A single hospital stay can cost an average of more than $15,000, this is an expense many are not ready to pay for. While you may be able to schedule payments for expensive medical bills, it isn’t always feasible—especially when added to other everyday medical costs such as medications, check-ups, doctor visits, etc.  

Consider just a few of the average costs of common health care services (without insurance): 

• Ambulance services: $400-$1,200 
• Physician visit: $300-$600 
• Urgent care visit: $100-$200 
• Baby wellness visits: $100 ($660+ for all seven recommended visits) 
• Pediatric immunizations: $620 
• Having a baby: $10,800 
• Prenatal care: $2,000 
• Specialty care nurseries (for premature births and other complications): $144,000 
• Physical therapy: $75-$150 per session 
• Heart valve replacement surgery: $170,000 
• Spinal fusion surgery: $35,000 

Plus, if you were to suffer complications related to these conditions, the outstanding costs are likely to be even higher than average. 

For example, a single person gets into a car wreck and needs emergency services. They’re transported by ambulance to a hospital and rushed into immediate spinal fusion surgery. Once out of surgery, they not only need to stay in the hospital for a few days to recover, but they will also need prescription medication and physical therapy. On the low side, the victim could be facing a bill of at least $35,000 (on top of recovering physically and emotionally from the incident).  

Growing Health Care Costs 

Unfortunately, these prices only seem to be growing due to a few factors, such as: 

• Service price and intensity 
• Population growth 
• Aging among the population 
• Growth in chronic diagnoses in population groups across the United States 
• Medical service utilization 

Health insurance won’t always cover the entire bill, but it can take enough weight off your shoulders to make it worth consideration. Therefore, you will benefit exponentially from this coverage in ways you didn’t even expect. You will be able to go to the doctor for routine care, which can help you better preserve your health for a longer time.  

If you have life insurance, then you will name a beneficiary. The beneficiary is the person who will receive the death benefit payout upon your death. You want your life insurance to help your survivors move on financially. However, choosing the right beneficiary might feel like a big challenge, particularly if you are single.  

Still, if you are single and are in the process of getting life insurance, you have a lot of freedom to choose the beneficiary who you think will be most capable of settling your final expenses. Choosing a beneficiary for your policy is completely up to you. Still, you should put appropriate thought into naming the right recipient.  

Consider how the following individuals might benefit from your policy: 

• Your children. If you have children, then they may be the best options to name as beneficiaries. You can even structure your policy so that each child receives a certain percentage of the funds. If the children are still minors, you may wish for the funds to pay into a trust that is overseen by a named trustee, which can help to care for the children’s needs until they reach a certain age. 
• Other dependents. Are you taking care of an elderly parent? What about a disabled adult child? These individuals might benefit from being named your life insurance beneficiary. However, you might still need to put this money into a trust because this individual might not be able to make financial decisions for themselves. 
• A charity. You can leave the funds from a life insurance policy to a charity if that is what you like. The money can be donated to the charity at the time of your death, in your memory.
  
• Your estate. The funds can be funneled into your estate. This means the money is split to pay your creditors and then split with your heirs. This gives you the least amount of control over your life insurance money and if you fail to name a beneficiary on the policy, then the money will default to your estate anyway. 

​
Plus, there are countless other people who you might decide to make beneficiaries on your policy—friends, siblings, business partners or extended relatives. In reality, the decision of who to name as a beneficiary is entirely up to you, and as a single individual, you have a lot of room for leverage. 

The choice of beneficiaries is an important part of life insurance decisions. And, it always helps to have more than one listed on the plan (in case the first person cannot accept the funds). Take a few minutes to discuss your needs with your loved ones so you can make the best decision going forward. 

Protect your family from the ‘silent killer’Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, invisible gas that results when certain fuels do not burn completely. And it can be deadly. That’s why it’s important to know how to prevent it, detect it, and protect yourself and your family from its effects.

In the home, carbon monoxide is most commonly formed by flames and heaters, as well as vehicles or generators that are running in an attached garage. As temperatures drop and more people are cranking the heat and hovering over the stove inside and warming up the car’s engine before hitting the road, it’s especially critical to ensure your family’s safety against this lethal gas.

Since carbon monoxide cannot be detected without a carbon monoxide detection device, it is essential to install and maintain one or more detectors in your home.

Detector Tips
At First  Community Financial Group, we want you and your family to stay protected, so check out the following tips from CAL FIRE San Diego County Fire Authority for safeguarding your household.

·        The International Association of Fire Chiefs recommends a carbon monoxide detector on every floor of your home, including the basement. A detector should be located within 10 feet of each bedroom door, and there should be one near or over any attached garage.
·        Each detector should be replaced every five to six years.
·        Battery-only carbon monoxide detectors tend to go through batteries more frequently than expected. Plug-in detectors with a battery backup (for use if power is interrupted) provide less battery-changing maintenance.
·        Thoroughly read the installation manual that comes with the individual detector you purchase. Manufacturers’ recommendations differ to a certain degree based on research conducted with detectors for specific brands.
·        Remember that carbon monoxide detectors do not serve as smoke detectors and vice versa. You can, however, purchase a dual smoke/carbon monoxide detector that can perform both functions.
·        Do not install carbon monoxide detectors next to fuel-burning appliances, as these appliances may emit a small amount of carbon monoxide upon startup.
​
In case of exposure
At First  Community Financial Group, we hope you never have to use the following tips from the Mayo Clinic, but please read on for good information that could help save a life.

If you suspect that you or someone you know has been exposed to carbon monoxide, check for the following symptoms:
·        dull headache
·        weakness
·        dizziness
·        nausea
·        vomiting
·        shortness of breath
·        confusion
·        loss of consciousness

If any of the symptoms exist, move the individual into fresh air and seek emergency medical care immediately. REMEMBER TO CALL 911!

The CDC also has a slew of resources:
Frequently Asked Questions | CDC
Emergencies and Generators | CDC
Prevention Guidance | Carbon Monoxide Poisoning | CDC

​There’s never been a more critical time than now to protect yourself against the flu. Even with widespread public health initiatives and disease prevention, the flu remains a potent and deadly threat to the American public. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to be a worldwide health hazard, it’s essential to do all you can to prevent any instance of illness, the flu included. 

Fortunately, the flu vaccine provides powerful, accessible protection against this widespread seasonal illness. Even if you’ve never had the flu, that doesn’t mean you are immune to it. This simple immunization serves as one of the best and most surefire disease prevention mechanisms this flu season. 

Getting a Flu Shot? Use Your Insurance! 
The Affordable Care Act requires most health insurance plans to cover a yearly flu vaccine as a preventative service. The flu vaccine is crucial in disease control and prevention. Under the law, insurers must cover these items at no cost to the insured patient. 

Use caution when verifying your insurance coverage for a flu vaccine. You may have to follow specific insurance regulations to get a free shot, and some older plans still might not cover the cost of the vaccine in full. For example, you might have to visit a particular provider within your insurance network to receive the vaccine.  

State health departments and other regulators have put various programs in place to help uninsured and underinsured individuals get flu shots. Contact your insurer or your local health department to see if you qualify for a free or reduced-cost vaccine. 

Getting the Vaccine and Preventing the Flu 
Before receiving your flu vaccine, there are a few things to keep in mind: 

Get the most updated vaccine. To ensure you receive full coverage for your flu shot, make sure you’re getting the correct vaccine. The flu vaccine changes from year to year, so always get the most recent version.  

Ask which shot your insurer covers. For example, one form of the flu vaccine, the flu mist, was a non-shot alternative to the traditional immunization. However, questions about the reliability of this method have caused many insurers to drop coverage for the mist. If your insurer is one of them, you may only qualify for a free vaccine if you get the traditional shot.
 
Plan to get your flu shot early in the season. It is best to get your flu shot earlier in the flu season. The flu vaccine usually takes full effect a couple of weeks after you get the shot. If you’re already sick, you won’t benefit from it. So, make sure you’re healthy, and then get the shot when it first becomes available. 

Prepare for mild symptoms. After getting the vaccine, you may experience mild symptoms, such as headaches, fever and lethargy. This is normal as the vaccine takes effect in your body and your immune system begins to produce antibodies. The symptoms should diminish within two to three days of receiving the shot. 
​
We have answers to your questions on health insurance coverage for flu shots. Contact our agency today for more information. 

The holidays (summer and winter) are a great time to travel home to see friends and family or to get some rest with a much-needed vacation. Unfortunately, adverse weather conditions can make traveling a challenge.

Winter storms, Hurricanes, and severe thunderstorms often cause flight delays and cancellations that can throw off a perfectly planned travel schedule and leave you stuck at the airport for hours. The last thing you want is to be is stranded in the airport when you should already be on the beach enjoying warmer weather or back home after a long journey.

If you’re in a hurry to make it home (or get away from home) but find yourself stuck at the airport due to delays or cancellations, here are several strategies for making your escape.

Check the status of your flight regularly.
If your flight has been delayed, it is important to stay aware of what’s happening because it could be delayed longer, rerouted, or cancelled. Many airline companies have apps that send flight updates directly to your phone so you can check frequently wherever you are. Before your trip, check the airline's website to see if this is something they offer for download.

Consider alternative flights.
Sometimes an indirect route can get you to your destination more quickly. If your delay is severe, consider purchasing a ticket for a different flight. For example, if your flight from Orlando to New York is delayed, a trip from Orlando to Minneapolis and then to New York may be a better use of your time. If you find that all possible alternative flights are sold out, keep checking. When weather conditions for flying are poor, there are often so many cancellations and delays that many miss their connections and leave open seats. Persistence is key!

Consider alternative airports.
If you’re lucky enough to discover a smaller airport nearby, consider forging a new path! After checking for open flights that will take you to your destination more quickly, make the journey with a taxi, a ride sharing driver, or another form of public transportation (if you don’t already have your own vehicle at the airport). Of course, utilizing alternative flights and airports does require a larger travel budget. If timeliness is a necessity for your trip, set aside a “rerouting budget” for unexpected changes in your flight plan.

Unfortunately, some delays are inevitable and there’s nothing you can do to speed up the process. Instead of twiddling your thumbs and playing the waiting game, reduce stress and conquer boredom with these fun ideas!
Explore the airport.
If you know you have time to spare, go for a walk or take the shuttle to see what you can discover. Some airports feature interesting attractions like bookstores, museums, spas and live music performances.

Go to the gym.
Working out is a great way to reduce stress and clear your head. Many airports have gyms available for customers so you can invest in personal health and wellness while waiting for your flight.

Find (delicious) food.
Even the best of us get hangry. Food may not completely remove your stress and frustration, but hunger certainly won't help either. Airports tend to offer a variety of dining options so you have a chance to try something new!

Write emails or make phone calls.
In the busyness of travel, you often don't have time to stay up-to-date with your inbox—this may be the perfect time to catch up! You could even take time to call a friend or family member that you haven't spoken with in a while. I'm sure mom would appreciate hearing from you!

Spend time with books.
It's true what they say: Having fun isn't hard when you've got a library card! The wait for your flight may be the perfect opportunity to dive into a book you've been meaning to read or an audiobook you've been planning to listen to. Puzzles and coloring books are also a fun option!

Take a nap.
We all wish we had more time for sleep. Now—if you can find someplace comfortable—there's nothing stopping you! Taking a nap will help you get rested and revitalized so you can take on the rest of your trip.
Air travel in the age of COVID-19 is unpredictable and you may find yourself in situations that are less than ideal.

t's easier said than done, but try to have patience—this too will pass! Who knows, maybe this unexpected free time will turn out to be a blessing in disguise? You could find yourself being surprisingly productive or maybe even enjoying yourself. In any case, if you're planning on traveling this year, good luck and safe travels!
​
Content provided by https://www.foremost.com

Safe drivers are cognizant of the risks of the road, aware of their surroundings, and committed to paying attention to the changing situations around them. Still, many people get behind the wheel when they are too tired to be truly committed to their driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates nearly 700 drivers were killed in accidents related to drowsy driving in 2019.

Driving when tired can be just as dangerous as driving drunk. As a result, you’re likely to be labeled a high-risk driver, which could signal a lot of red flags to your auto insurer. Because of this added challenge, you are likely to see your auto insurance rates rise. Therefore, you are doing yourself a financial favor by avoiding getting behind the wheel when you are tired.

What are a few of the ways that you will be able to tell if you are too tired to drive?

#1: Notice Your Physical Signs of Drowsiness

Your body is your roadmap for life; it tells you when you are tired and need to rest. At minimum, you are tired if you are yawning often, or dozing off in the middle of a given task. In other words, if you were alone for just a minute, then you would fall asleep. Therefore, if you need to sleep, then you shouldn’t try to go for a drive, instead. You could doze off behind the wheel—one of the worst possible times for you to do so.

#2: You Cannot Remember Driving

Perhaps you have been driving for quite a while. However, you don’t remember the last few miles you traveled, or maybe you can’t remember whether the last stoplight you went through was red or green. If you are having trouble remembering where you just went, then you are driving distracted, and this might be a clear sign that you are too tired.

#3: Your Lifestyle Makes You Prone to Tiredness

Even if you feel fine at the start of a drive, that doesn’t mean you won’t get tired the longer a drive goes on. After all, numerous lifestyle factors might drive you to become more tired during long drives. Some of these risk factors include:

• You did not get seven (or more) hours or sleep in the last night or two.
• You were drinking alcohol within the last four to five hours.
• You are driving a long distance. If so, be sure you take a break at least every 100 miles.

​
You do not want to file car insurance claims for accidents caused by being drowsy. In the end, an at-fault accident claim might drive your rates up significantly. If you had a hard day or did not get any sleep, it is important not to get behind the wheel until you have rested up.
​

Increasing healthcare costs have most people concerned about keeping expenses low, even leading some to pass up health insurance because they think they cannot afford it. Under the Affordable Care Act, everyone must purchase healthcare coverage or risk possibly paying a fine to the government. Truth is, even if you have to pinch pennies for a while, you can’t afford to skip health insurance. There’s always a chance you may slip at the pool and break a bone or your child may get burnt while roasting marshmallows at a backyard BBQ. 

Even though you need health insurance, there are still ways you can cut back on expenses. Here are some tips to help you save money on your healthcare costs.

Ask for the generic prescription: It’s often just as good as the name brand one, but without the colorful branding and catchy ad jingle. For medications you take regularly, the savings can end up being significant over the course of a year.

Inquire about a cash discount: When you haven’t met your deductible and have to pay out-of-pocket, ask your doctor for a discount for paying in cash. Start the negotiations by offering to pay 50 percent of your bill; you’ll be surprised at how well this can work in some cases. 

Give up unhealthy habits: People who smoke, drink or live a sedentary lifestyle usually have more illnesses and long-term diseases. By changing your lifestyle, you’re less likely to make frequent trips to the doctor.

Beef up your Health Savings Account:?Putting money in a Health Savings Account offers you a triple tax break. Contributions lower your taxable income, they grow tax-deferred and can be used tax-free for medical expenses. Find out if you’re eligible for a Health Savings Account, and if so, open one and start contributing each year.

Get regular checkups: Catching diseases or health problems early on is a key factor in treatment and regaining your good health. No matter how busy you are or how much you dislike the doctor’s office, stay current on your checkups.

Lose weight:? With more than a third of Americans obese, many people could stand to lose a few pounds. Even shedding as little as 10 percent of your body weight helps you stay healthier and cut your risk for many diseases. 

Need healthcare coverage? Want more tips on saving in regards to healthcare? Your independent insurance agent is here to help!

We’ll help you find the right coverage. Call First Community Financial Group today to get started on the right health care policy for you.
​

The number of new COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths in the United States continue to be at relatively low levels, but there are now concerns about unusual off-season spikes in colds and respiratory viruses among children.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a health advisory stating that respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity is unexpectedly spreading in southern states. As a result, doctors are urging parents across the country to keep their guard up this summer.
RSV, which usually spikes during winter months, causes the common cold and can be treated at home. However, for infants, young children and older adults, RSV can be severe and lead to bronchiolitis and pneumonia. Furthermore, each year RSV sends 75,000 to 125,000 children to the hospital and kills as many as 200.
Similar to the coronavirus and influenza, RSV spread through respiratory droplets in the air and on surfaces. However, it’s more likely than the coronavirus to remain on the skin and other surfaces.
Symptoms of Viruses and RSVIt’s important for parents to be aware that viruses, including RSV, are spreading at an unusual time of the year, so infants and children with underlying health conditions should be closely monitored.
There are many overlapping systems between COVID-19 and other virus-related illnesses, so it’s best to reach out to a pediatrician with any questions. Generally, parents and caregivers should watch for signs of illness.
For mild to moderate symptoms of fever, runny nose, cough, gastrointestinal trouble or breathing issues, caregivers should contact a doctor.
For more severe symptoms—like fast breathing, belly breathing, noisy breathing or signs of lethargy—it’s recommended to go directly to urgent care or an emergency room for further evaluation.
Cold Prevention Tips for ParentsPeople say that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, which means it’s better to prevent a cold or illness all together if possible. Here are a few ways to do just that.

• Wash hands often and thoroughly. Teach your kids to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Have alcohol-based hand sanitizer with you for situations when soap and water are unavailable.
• Avoid face touching whenever possible. Encourage your children to keep their hands away from their face. This will help prevent germs from entering their body from their dirty hands.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects. These are things such as toys, doorknobs and mobile devices.
• Completely cover sneezes and coughs. Remind children to cough and sneeze into a tissue then throw it away, or use their elbow to completely cover their mouth and nose.

Check back here for more health and wellness tips!
​