Each November, men across the globe grow mustaches to spotlight issues within men’s healthcare. Let’s talk about some of the most common issues and how consumer-directed healthcare accounts can help cover related expenses.
Men’s Healthcare: Cancer Screenings
After non-melanoma skin cancer, the CDC reports, prostate cancer is the most frequent type that men experience. Although not as common, testicular cancer is also a significant concern. The American Cancer Society estimates there will be 10,000 newly diagnosed cases of testicular cancer in 2022.
The good news is that prostate cancer screenings, including palpation exams, blood tests, and biopsies, can help detect the disease early. Testicular cancer can be self-screened at home or confirmed by your physician. For this, physicians use ultrasounds and other imaging tests, blood tests, or surgery.
Most health plans cover screening procedures for these diseases at no out-of-pocket cost. If not, you can use your FSA or HSA. In some cases, HRAs may help pay the difference.
Men’s Healthcare: Snoring and Sleep Apnea Issues
According to the Mayo Clinic, snoring is more prevalent in men. Snoring is also often linked to sleep apnea. Risk factors include excess weight, alcohol consumption, and inadequate sleep. Sleep apnea testing, CPAP equipment, prescriptions, and breathing strips qualify for payment with FSA, HSA, and some HRA plans.
Men’s Healthcare: Sexual and Reproductive Health,
Some men face fertility issues; others may struggle with sexual dysfunction. Certain populations are disproportionately affected by sexually transmitted diseases. Fortunately, FSA, HSA, and some HRA accounts can help cover the cost of screenings, diagnostic testing, treatments, and OTC preventive care products.
Men’s Healthcare: Aging Issues
Men age faster than women. By their 50s, male bodies are as much as four biological years older than those of women of the same age. To help combat the effects of aging, Cleveland Clinic recommends the following for people over age 50:
- Maintain a healthy diet and weight
- Get enough sleep
- Get or stay active
- Stop smoking
- Minimize alcohol consumption
- Get routine health screenings
- Get the shingles vaccination and annual flu vaccinations
Most traditional health plans cover screenings and vaccinations. Some may assist with treatment for excessive consumption of alcohol or tobacco. If yours doesn’t, FSA and HSA accounts can be used for smoking cessation, alcohol treatment, prescriptions, and OTC products such as nicotine patches and gum.
As we age, many of us need eyeglasses or contacts. Certain eye issues are more common in women. In addition to checking eyesight, men should receive screenings for glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts. Your FSA or HSA account can help pay for eye exams, eyeglasses, prescription sunglasses, contact lenses, saline solution, and even LASIK or cataract surgery.
Finally, check to see if your employer offers lifestyle spending accounts (LSAs). This relatively new benefit can help you access helpful products and services not covered by insurance. For example, the LSA may cover physical fitness equipment, facilities, and meditation apps.
In Conclusion
Whether or not you grow a mustache for Movember, we hope you are addressing your healthcare needs this month and every month. Use your FSA, HSA, HRA, and Lifestyle Spending Accounts to help cover any out-of-pocket costs for preventive or medical treatments.
