APPLETON, Wis. (NBC 26) -- Your wedding is one of the biggest days of your life, but once a woman is married there could be some changes to the way she receives medical care.
Raquel Lamal, 29, is getting married this fall.
"The cake tasting is coming up this summer and I'm really looking forward to that," said Lamal. "I picked out the dress and all that fun stuff."
Excitement is building as they count down the days until they say 'I do.'
After the nuptials some difficult decisions need to be made.
Some women change their insurance, their doctors and maybe even their name.
"I'm going to change my name," said Lamal. "I want to have the same last name as my kids."
These changes can sneak up on a bride and leave them feeling overwhelmed and unprepared.
"It's a little confusing to be honest," said Lamal. "I know we are going to need help next year navigating that and figuring out what makes the most sense."
Counselors with Women's Health Specialists in Appleton have tips for future brides.
"Will they be staying on their existing insurance or will they be going on their husband's insurance," said Denise Jesse, a financial counselor with Women's Health Specialists.
You need to analyze premiums versus out-of-pocket responsibilities to determine which plan is right for you.
Counselors say you should compare health plan networks and benefits.
"If you don't understand your policy there may be unexpected out of pocket responsibilities that could occur," said Jesse.
Counselors say the best thing you can do is be prepared for the change.
If you are struggling to understand what your insurance covers and how medical bills could impact you, counselors at Women's Health Specialists are available over the phone or in person.
A woman has 30 to 60 days to make changes to their insurance after a qualifying life event.
For more information, click here.
