Access to health care ensures people can receive timely and quality medical attention. This leads to better health outcomes. Good health also means better quality of life. At Aetna Better Health® of Illinois, we’re working to ensure that vulnerable communities receive the care they need and deserve.
Let’s take a look at some barriers that impact access to care:
- Location can be a challenge. Rural areas often have fewer health care providers. This makes it difficult for members to access medical services.
- Transportation is a major factor in access to care. If you don’t have a car, visiting a doctor can be hard. Lack of public transportation can also prove to be difficult. This includes not being able to afford transportation, too.
- We all know how hard it can be to schedule an appointment. It can be challenging to find available doctors. Shortage of doctors, especially specialists, can lead to delayed care.
- Navigating health care can be confusing. You are not alone. Not all providers have the same process, and rules and regulations can make something as simple as scheduling an appointment difficult. Many people struggle with this. There are many questions you may have.
Aetna Better Health of Illinois is tackling these issues head-on. Here’s how we are making a difference:
- We have significantly invested in telehealth services. Members can connect with doctors virtually. Members can schedule video calls or phone calls to get care. We also host community-based health events. These events bring care closer to where members live. This includes health fairs, mobile clinics and wellness events in underserved areas. Take a look at our News and events page for the latest updates.
- If you need a ride to your health care visits or pharmacy, we can help. We offer rides for members. This includes rides for those who do not have access to a car or public transportation. This benefit also ensures that the lack of transportation is not a reason for missed appointments. Learn more here.
- We’re always working to grow our system of doctors. This includes adding specialists and health care facilities. By doing this, we ensure that members have more options and shorter wait times for appointments. Our efforts also lead to more timely and effective care. If you need help finding care, check the back of your member ID card to find a doctor. You can also find a doctor near you on our website.
- The world is diverse. Doctors must be ready to serve all people. We offer cultural know-how training for our doctors. This training enhances their understanding of cultural differences. It also improves their ability to deliver respectful and personalized care to all.
- We provide support to help members navigate the health care system. Our care coordinators can schedule appointments, explain benefits and connect members with community resources. Remember that we’re here to help. If you ever have a question about your plan, call Member Services at 1-866-329-4701 (TTY:711).
We are making health care more accessible for our members. These efforts not only improve health outcomes but also contribute to the overall well-being of the communities we serve.