Doctors, pharmacists, dentists, therapists. Those are just a few members of the team who keep you at—or working toward—your best.
While each provider is needed, the most important member of your health care team is you.
Ready to take charge of your health in 2025? Here are some ways to get started.
Plan your 2025 appointments now
The beginning of a new year is a perfect time to schedule routine appointments in advance. Call your doctor, dentist, and other medical providers in January and plan your visits for 2025.
The weeks and months go by fast. When you plan ahead for the entire year, you are more likely to follow through with the checkups, screenings, vaccinations, tests, and other services you might need to stay healthy.
If you are not sure what appointments you might need in 2025, ask your doctor.
Prepare before each visit
A lot happens when you visit your doctor, dentist, therapist, or other medical provider.
You can make every minute count when you do a little homework before your visit.
Ways to prepare for your appointment:
- Make a list of illnesses, injuries, and treatments you have had in the past few years.
- Write details about any symptoms you have had in the past month or two.
- Bring medications with you, including over-the-counter drugs like allergy or pain drugs.
- Tell your provider about herbs, mushrooms, or supplements you take.
- Write down all your questions in advance so you won’t forget anything.
You can make these lists and reminders on a piece of paper or in a “notes” app in your phone. Use whatever works for you—but don’t rely on your memory!
Communicate clearly
You and your provider are a team. It’s important to be honest about your physical and mental symptoms.
If you do not understand something they say, ask them to explain it again. It is OK to ask questions.
It is also OK to speak up if you do not agree with the doctor. You might not have transportation to get a test or treatment they prescribe. You may be afraid to take a certain medication or worry about side effects after a planned procedure or surgery.
If you are not able to follow their instructions for any reason, tell them. They may be able to help you find answers or other options.
Get support if needed
You may be struggling with morning sickness, asthma, diabetes, obesity, postpartum depression, substance use disorder, or many other conditions.
You might be recovering from childbirth, surgery, an infection, or a serious injury.
Whatever your diagnosis, you are not alone. Many people find comfort, encouragement, and helpful information in support groups, both online and in person. Talking to others who recovered from the same illness or injury can motivate you to take the best possible care of yourself.
Another way to get support is to bring a trusted friend or family member to your appointments. They can take notes, ask questions, and otherwise help you make the most of your visit.
Follow through on care plans
It’s a good idea to take the lead in managing your own health and wellness. That means following others—your doctor, dentist, pharmacist, therapists, and other providers.
Be sure to stick with your treatment plans and schedule follow-up appointments when needed.
If you don’t understand something, or have an unusual symptom, tell your provider right away.
Need a ride to the doctor?
PCHP offers nonemergency medical transportation (NEMT) to all STAR Medicaid members. Members must use Access2Care to set up medical transportation.
NEMT includes free rides to and from the doctor, dentist, hospital, drugstore, or other Medicaid service providers. If you need a ride, PCHP may be able to help with:
- Public transportation, like the city bus.
- Money to buy gas.
- A taxi or van service.
- Commercial transit, like a bus or plane.
Call 1-833-931-3844 (TTY 7-1-1) to schedule a trip. Calls are answered Monday through Saturday from 5 am – 7 pm.
You must schedule your pickup at least two workdays before you need the ride.
- Phone reservations, press 1.
Monday-Friday, 8 am – 5 pm (CT)
- Where’s My Ride, press 2.
Monday-Saturday, 5 am – 7 pm (CT)
When you schedule a trip, you’ll need to provide:
- Your Medicaid ID number.
- Your address.
- Your phone number.
- The date and time that you need the ride.
- Any unique needs you may have, like using a wheelchair or walker, so the right vehicle can be sent.
Need a ride to the grocery store?
STAR Medicaid members can schedule one free ride per month to a local grocery store, food bank, or WIC office.
Call 1-833-931-3844 (TTY 7-1-1) to schedule a trip. Calls are answered Monday through Saturday from 5 am – 7 pm. You must schedule your pickup at least two workdays before you need the ride.
Limit one ride a month per house in the Dallas Service Area; English/Spanish interpreter services available.
