Take Care

Melody Mulaik
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Navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming—Take Care is here to change that. Hosted by healthcare leader and industry expert Melody Mulaik, this podcast breaks down the complexities of healthcare so you can be empowered, informed, and in control. Whether you're managing your own care or supporting someone else, each episode delivers clear, practical insights to help you take care of what matters most. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and join us in making healthcare less confusing—and more human.

  1. Aug 11

    Health Insurance Terms Explained: The A to Z Guide Every Patient Should Know

    Health insurance can feel like learning a new language. Between deductibles, copays, coinsurance, prior authorizations, and Explanation of Benefits (EOBs), it's easy to feel overwhelmed when reviewing your medical bills. In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik walks you through an easy-to-understand A-to-Z glossary of the most important health insurance and medical billing terms every patient should know. Whether you're reviewing a medical bill, choosing a health plan, or simply trying to understand what your insurance covers, this episode will help you become a more informed healthcare consumer. By understanding these common terms, you'll be better equipped to avoid billing surprises, ask the right questions, and make confident decisions about your healthcare. In This Episode, You'll Learn: What the allowable amount really meansThe difference between copays and coinsuranceHow deductibles affect what you payWhy your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) mattersThe purpose of FSAs and HSAsWho the guarantor is on a medical billHow HIPAA protects your medical informationWhy you should request an itemized statementWhat medical necessity means to insurance companiesThe difference between in-network and out-of-network providersHow your out-of-pocket maximum protects you financiallyWhy prior authorization can delay careWhat qualifies as a qualifying life eventHow timely filing affects insurance claimsWhat a write-off really means on your medical billWhy understanding your financial responsibility is essentialResources Mentioned: Explanation of Benefits (EOB): https://www.cms.gov/medical-bill-rights/help/guides/explanation-of-benefits Flexible Spending Account (FSA): https://www.uhc.com/understanding-health-insurance/understanding-health-insurance-costs/flexible-spending-accounts Health Savings Account (HSA): https://www.hsabank.com/Products/HSA.html HIPAA: https://www.melodymulaik.com/blog/the-patients-guide-to-hipaa-access-privacy-and-confidentiality Prior Authorization: https://www.verywellhealth.com/prior-authorization-1738770 Related Episodes: Paying Medical Bills Before You Meet Your Deductible: A Simple Tip That Can Save You MoneyOffice Visit Fees Explained: What Patients Need to KnowWhat Patients Need to Know About Surprise BillingWhy Did I Get a Separate Lab Bill? Understanding Unexpected ChargesWhen to Choose the Self-Pay Option Instead of InsuranceTimestamps: 00:00 Introduction00:45 Allowable Amount01:35 Copay vs. Coinsurance02:20 Deductible02:55 Explanation of Benefits (EOB)06:20 Medical Necessity07:00 In-Network vs. Out-of-Network08:00 Out-of-Pocket Maximum08:45 Prior Authorization11:05 Timely Filing13:30 Know Your Financial Responsibility13:55 Final ThoughtsIf you found this episode helpful, subscribe to Take Care so you never miss practical advice that helps you better understand healthcare, medical billing, and health insurance. If you have a question or a medical billing topic you'd like covered in a future episode, send it through our website. We'd love to hear from you. Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

  2. Aug 4

    Paying Medical Bills Before You Meet Your Deductible: A Simple Tip to Help You Avoid Overpaying

    Have you ever been asked to pay hundreds of dollars at a doctor's office simply because you haven't met your health insurance deductible? Many patients assume the amount requested at check-in is exactly what they owe. In reality, that amount is often only an estimate and may not reflect what your insurance company will ultimately allow after processing your claim. In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik shares a real-life story from her husband's recent dermatologist visit to explain how deductibles really work, why provider charges and insurance allowed amounts are different, and how you can avoid paying more than necessary before your insurance has finalized your claim. Whether you're covered by employer-sponsored insurance, an ACA Marketplace plan, or another commercial health insurance plan, this practical episode will help you become a more informed healthcare consumer and avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket costs. What You'll Learn In This Episode: What a health insurance deductible actually meansWhy the amount a medical office requests isn't always your final responsibilityThe difference between billed charges and insurance allowed amountsHow insurance companies calculate what counts toward your deductibleA simple strategy to reduce the risk of overpaying before your claim is processedWhat to do if you've already overpaid a healthcare providerWhy reviewing your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) is one of the most important steps before paying your balanceTimestamps: 00:36 Don't Assume the Office's Estimate Is Final 01:03 Understanding Health Insurance Deductibles 01:42 Billed Charges vs. Insurance Allowed Amounts 02:34 What Actually Applies to Your Deductible? 03:00 How to Avoid Overpaying Your Medical Bill 03:48 Why Paying Half First Can Save You Money 04:07 Getting a Refund If You Overpaid 04:35 What Every Patient Should Remember  If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with family and friends. Every episode of Take Care is designed to help you make informed healthcare decisions with practical tips you can use in everyday life. Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

  3. Jul 28

    Office Visit Fees Explained: What Every Patient Needs to Know

    Have you ever gone to a follow-up appointment or a quick procedure and wondered why you were charged an office visit fee on top of everything else? In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik answers a listener's question about when it's appropriate for healthcare providers to bill an office visit separately from a procedure. She explains how surgical global periods work, when follow-up visits should already be included, and why some procedures may not require an additional evaluation and management (E/M) visit. Understanding these billing rules can help you spot potential billing errors, ask the right questions, and avoid paying for services you shouldn't be charged for. What You'll Learn In This Episode: What an office visit (Evaluation & Management) charge actually coversWhy some post-surgical follow-up visits should already be includedThe difference between 0-day, 10-day, and 90-day global surgical periodsWhen an office visit can legitimately be billed with a procedureWhy does removing a mole not automatically justify an office visit chargeHow does bringing up a new medical concern change billingWhen physical therapy is billed separatelyWhat to do if you think you've been billed incorrectlyHow your insurance company can help review questionable chargesTips for advocating for accurate medical billingTimestamps: 00:00 Listener question: Why am I being charged an office visit every time?01:00 Understanding post-surgical follow-up billing01:45 What are global surgical periods?02:30 The difference between 0-day, 10-day, and 90-day global periods03:15 When follow-up visits should be included03:55 Why physical therapy is billed separately04:15 Billing rules for mole removal and minor procedures05:00 When a new medical concern creates a separate office visit06:00 How providers determine whether an office visit is billable06:45 What to do if you believe you've been billed incorrectly07:30 Final advice on advocating for accurate medical billingHave a healthcare billing or insurance question you'd like answered on the podcast? Visit our website and submit your question for a future episode. Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

  4. Jul 21

    How the ‘No Surprises Act’ Protects You from Unexpected Medical Bills

    Have you ever done everything right, chosen an in-network hospital, verified your insurance coverage, and still received a surprise medical bill from a provider you never even met? In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik explains why surprise medical bills used to happen, what changed with the No Surprises Act, and how the law now protects patients from unexpected out-of-network charges. You'll learn when these protections apply, the exceptions you should know about, and what steps to take if you receive a bill that doesn't seem right. Whether you're preparing for surgery, visiting the emergency room, or simply trying to understand your health insurance benefits, this episode will help you avoid costly surprises and advocate for yourself with confidence. What You’ll Learn In This Episode:  Why receiving an unexpected medical bill isn't always your fault.Understanding the difference between in-network and out-of-network providers.How the No Surprises Act changed healthcare billing nationwide.Emergency care protections every patient should know.Hospital-based providers who may not be in your insurance network.Good Faith Estimates for uninsured and self-pay patients.Practical steps to dispute incorrect medical bills.Resources available through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).Resources:  No Surprises Act: https://www.cms.gov/nosurprises/ending-surprise-medical-billsCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS): https://www.cms.gov/ Explanation of Benefits (EOB): https://www.cms.gov/medical-bill-rights/help/guides/explanation-of-benefits Timestamps: 00:00 Rachel's question about an unexpected medical bill 00:48 Why did surprise billing used to happen 01:38 What qualifies as a surprise bill 01:52 The No Surprises Act explained 02:17 Emergency room billing protections 02:47 Hospital-based providers and out-of-network charges 03:18 The ambulance billing exception 03:49 Who pays the remaining balance? 04:28 Good Faith Estimates for uninsured and self-pay patients 05:23 What to do if you receive an unexpected bill 06:01 Compare your bill with your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) 06:35 Filing a complaint with CMS 07:02 Final advice and closing If this episode helped you better understand your healthcare rights, be sure to follow Take Care, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend or family member. Have a healthcare or insurance question you'd like answered on a future episode? Send it in; you might hear it featured in an upcoming episode.  Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

  5. Jun 23

    Some of the Hidden Rules of Health Insurance Coverage in America with John Hennessy

    In this episode of the Take Care podcast, Melody Mulaik sits with John Hennessy, an Associate Principal at Payer Sciences, to unpack one of the most confusing and frustrating parts of modern healthcare: how patients actually access care once it’s been prescribed. From insurance plan documents to prior authorizations, GLP-1 coverage debates, and oncology drug access, this conversation pulls back the curtain on how “coverage” really works in practice, and why patients often find themselves stuck in the middle. John brings deep experience from oncology operations, including leadership at Kansas City Cancer Centers, and combines it with patient advocacy training and real-world cases he’s currently helping navigate. Key Topics Covered: The Reality of Healthcare Access TodayThe GLP-1 Case Study (Sleep Apnea Coverage)ERISA vs State-Regulated Insurance PlansAppeals, Denials, and the Paper Trail ProblemPrior Authorization in Oncology and BeyondThe Burnout Factor in Healthcare SystemsThe Bigger Shift: From Insurance to “Defined Contribution” ModelsPatient Behavior, Cost Fear, and Delayed CareThe Core Message: Be Curious About Your CareKey Takeaways: “Covered” does not always mean accessibleEmployer-based plans can vary widely under ERISA rulesPrior authorization is a major bottleneck across oncology and specialty drugsAppeals often work, but only if patients persist through documentation layersFinancial toxicity is a real part of patient harmCuriosity and early planning are among the most powerful patient toolsTimestamps: 00:00 - John Hennessy is introduced as a healthcare strategist and oncology operations expert focused on value-based care and patient access.00:01- He explains how patients now spend significant time navigating administrative barriers just to access healthcare.00:03 - A real case shows how GLP-1 drugs for sleep apnea can be FDA-approved yet still denied by employer-based insurance plans.00:06 - The episode clarifies the key difference between ERISA self-funded employer plans and state-regulated insurance coverage.00:11 - Oncology care is heavily affected by prior authorizations, often leading to delays, appeals, and affordability challenges despite approval.00:22 - John closes by urging patients to be curious, proactive, and aware of both short-term coverage and long-term treatment implications.Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

  6. Jun 16

    Why Prescription Drug Shortages Happen and How to Respond | Take Care Together

    Running out of medication is stressful enough. Finding out the pharmacy doesn’t even have it in stock adds another layer of frustration. In this episode of Take Care Together, Melody Mulaik and Ashley share a real-life experience of navigating prescription drug shortages after Ashley’s move across states and transition to a new healthcare team. What started as a simple refill request for ADHD medication turned into a conversation about prescription shortages, insurance formularies, controlled substances, specialty pharmacies, manufacturer coupons, and how patients can advocate for themselves when access becomes difficult. If you’ve ever been told, “Sorry, we’re out of stock,” this episode gives practical next steps and helpful strategies to keep moving forward. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why prescription drug shortages happenThe ongoing ADHD stimulant shortage and what caused itHow controlled substances create extra refill challengesWhy supply cannot instantly increase during high demandHow insurance formularies affect medication accessHow to check medication coverage inside your insurance portalWhat specialty pharmacies are and when they become usefulHow manufacturer savings programs and coupons workQuestions to ask your doctor when medications are unavailableWays to advocate for yourself and explore alternativesTimestamps: 00:00 Welcome back and Ashley’s healthcare transition update 02:00 Refill challenges after moving states 03:00 Discovering ADHD medication shortages 05:00 Why patients often don’t hear about drug shortages 08:00 Social media, ADHD awareness, and rising diagnoses 10:00 Why manufacturers can’t simply produce more medication 12:00 Understanding insurance formularies 14:00 Using insurance portals to compare medication coverage 16:00 Why similar medications may not work the same 17:00 Exploring newer medications during shortages 19:00 Manufacturer coupons and specialty pharmacy options 21:00 Final advice: advocate for yourself and don’t stop searching Resources: Where Should I Get My Prescriptions Filled? Mail Order vs Local PharmacyTake Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    Why Prescription Drug Shortages Happen and How to Respond | Take Care Together

  7. Jun 2

    Why You Need a Doctor’s Visit for Medication Refills

    Why does your doctor sometimes refuse to refill a medication unless you schedule an appointment first? It can feel frustrating, especially when you’ve been taking the same prescription for years without any problems. In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik explains the real reasons healthcare providers often require follow-up visits before approving medication refills. From monitoring blood pressure and lab work to checking for side effects and adjusting dosages as your body changes over time, these appointments are about more than policies. They are about protecting your health and making sure your treatment is still safe and effective. Melody also discusses: Why doctors are responsible for the medications they prescribeHow aging, weight changes, and health conditions affect medicationsWhy certain prescriptions require ongoing monitoringThe importance of kidney, liver, and cholesterol checksWhy do controlled substances have stricter refill rulesHow side effects can sometimes go unnoticedWhat to do if you are about to run out of medicationHow pharmacies and providers may help with short-term refillsTimestamps: 00:01 – Why doctors require follow-ups for refills 00:02 – Your body changes over time 02:30 – Monitoring organ function and safety 00:03 – Long-term medication monitoring 03:30 – Side effects and better treatment options 00:04 – Controlled substances and legal requirements 00:05 – What to do if you’re running out of medication If you have ever wondered, “Why can’t they just refill my prescription?” this episode offers practical answers and helpful guidance for navigating the process without panic. Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

  8. May 26

    What Is Home Health Care? A Simple Guide for Caregivers and Families

    When a loved one comes home from the hospital, many families suddenly hear terms like “home health,” “physical therapy,” or “homebound” and wonder what it all actually means. In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik breaks down what home health care really is, who qualifies for it, what services are included, and why it can be such an important support system for patients and caregivers alike. Whether you’re caring for aging parents, helping someone recover after surgery, or navigating Medicare for the first time, this episode explains how licensed healthcare professionals can provide skilled medical care directly in the home. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: What home health care actually meansThe difference between home health and caregiving servicesWhat types of professionals may visit the homeHow physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nursing care workWhen patients typically qualify for home health servicesWhat “homebound” means for Medicare eligibilityWhy home health is often used after hospital stays or rehabHow families can advocate for home health before dischargeWhat conditions may qualify someone for home health careWhy home health can help patients recover safely at homeTimestamps [00:00] Introduction to home health care [01:00] What home health actually means [01:40] Skilled nursing, therapy, and medical support explained [02:00] How home health assessments work [03:00] Why every patient’s care plan looks different [03:45] Medicare and restarting home health services [04:00] When patients typically qualify for home health [04:45] Home health after surgery, illness, or rehab [05:20] Conditions that may qualify for home health [05:45] The role of physicians and medical necessity [06:00] What “homebound” means [06:20] Home health vs caregivers explained [07:00] Why Melody recommends saying yes to home health support Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

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About

Navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming—Take Care is here to change that. Hosted by healthcare leader and industry expert Melody Mulaik, this podcast breaks down the complexities of healthcare so you can be empowered, informed, and in control. Whether you're managing your own care or supporting someone else, each episode delivers clear, practical insights to help you take care of what matters most. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and join us in making healthcare less confusing—and more human.

Information

  • Creator
    Melody Mulaik
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    51
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Take Care
  • Show Website
    Take Care