As we officially approach the end of 2018, there are so many things one must prepare for. Thanksgiving, Christmas, school breaks, the list goes on. Amidst the busyness, it's no surprise that people often overlook the funds remaining in their Flexible Savings Account (FSA) / Health Spending Account (HSA). To make matters worse, if they have an FSA and don’t use their funds, then they will lose this hard-earned money. The good news is if you are caught up on doctor visits and other related items, you have some money to spend. And there isn't a much better way than putting that money towards your own wellbeing.
Investing in Your Health
An excellent place to start with your leftover FSA/HSA money is to invest in ways to make you feel better, and it's kind of like using free money; that should already make you feel good. Instead of spending the remaining money in a reactive way like treating illness, try using those dollars in a proactive way that will not only improve your health but maybe even save your life. Chances are if you have an FSA/HSA account, you probably work in an office, and you probably sit at a desk for long periods of the day. And while you may truly enjoy your job, sitting at a desk all day can cause severe damage to your overall health.
The problem is a traditional desk puts unnecessary pressure on your spine leading to discomfort and sometimes injury. A poorly designed workstation can also cause poor blood circulation and difficulties in maintaining a healthy weight. By ditching the old desk and switching to an adjustable height desk, you are beginning the adventure to a healthier, happier version of yourself.
Choosing an Adjustable Height Desk
Just as sitting all day is not good for your body, standing all day can bring with it its own host of issues like swelling, joint pain, and fatigue. Like most things in life, finding the balance between getting up to move around, standing and sitting is key to your wellness success. Another crucial element is finding an ergonomic design that allows you to adjust the height of your desk that aligns best with your body, encouraging good posture and spine alignment. Some benefits of an adjustable desk include:
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Muscle strengthening. When using the desk at a standing height, you can strengthen core and leg muscles.
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Reduced neck pain. While seated you can adjust the desk to prevent slouching which leads to neck and back pain.
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Quick pain relief. It begins soon after switching to sit-stand desks, in some cases as early as four weeks after changing from a sitting desk.
And pain management isn't the only benefit of a new workstation. If you have been unsuccessful when it comes to losing weight and you currently sit at a desk for long hours, an ergonomically designed sit-stand desk may be the key for you.
How to Use Your FSA to Purchase a Sit-Stand Desk at FlexiSpot.com
Under your flexible spending account, ergonomic items are eligible with a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN). Since these items are designed to help limit physical stresses or relive the pain of an existing injury, like back pain associated with spinal problems, your doctor can provide a Letter of Medical Necessity.
How to purchase your desk in four simple steps:
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First, you need to pick out the stand desk that is right for you. You can shop at Flexispot.com. Know that an LMN will be required, so ensure you are looking for the best desk to satisfy your needs.
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Once you have your desk picked out, approach your primary care physician or chiropractor about obtaining a Letter of Medical Necessity. This will be important when you submit your claim.
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Then purchase your desk directly from our secure Flexi-Spot website. If your item is in stock, you can expect your delivery in 2-5 business days depending on where you live, with free shipment!
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After you have paid for your new stand desk, then it’s time to get reimbursed.
-You will need your receipt from FlexiSpot and your LMN from your doctor.
-You may also need an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from the insurance company. This will show that your purchase was not covered by your insurance.
-You will need a claim form to fill out. You may have some from your welcome packet when you signed up for your FSA, otherwise your plan administrator should have some. You can always visit the website of your FSA provider to obtain claim forms.
-Then you fill that form out and submit that all the paperwork to the address on the claim form.
NOTE: Reimbursement methods vary. Some FSA administrators allow online submission while others have only mail-in options. You may receive a check in the mail, or direct deposit depending on how your account is set up. Reimbursement occurs generally within 10-14 days.
You may also be eligible to be reimbursed mileage for your doctor visits.
Questions customers frequently ask include:
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Can I use my flexible spending account debit card to purchase?
If you have a debit card linked to your FSA or HSA account, you can use your card for eligible medical expenses at many places that a debit card is used. Places like pharmacies and grocery stores. However, it can only be used at approved establishments. Check with your card issuer for an approved list. As for purchasing your stand-desk with your FSA debit card? Currently you would need to purchase your stand desk out of pocket, then submit for reimbursement from your FSA administrator.
-Important note: Even when you use your FSA card, save all receipts. This is important should your purchase ever come into question as to eligibility.
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What are other FSA eligible products I can buy?
-Reach out to your FSA administrator to further assist you with this matter. The contact number should be on the back of your FSA card. Some service is also FSA eligible, such as acupuncture and chiropractor service.
Ergonomics, a Short Lesson
The reason ergonomically designed workstations and products are gaining in popularity is because they are created for the people who use them. It's actual science based on human abilities and limitations and how to improve the relationship between people and the products they use every day. The end goal is, of course, to improve the quality of life and reduce injury or harm. One of the best things about changing your position is that you will notice the immediate difference in your overall mood when you switch to a standing desk. You will also begin to see that your productivity has improved dramatically. This makes sense; if you aren’t feeling miserable due to pain and feeling your best, you can get more accomplished.
We are deliberate in our mission to transform the workstations of the past into an environment that encourages wellness and productivity. We truly invest in the wellbeing of our customers, and you will feel in our designs. That is why we create more than just desks. We provide:
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Height adjustable desks
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Standing desk converters
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Desk exercise bikes
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Standing desk accessories
Final Thoughts
Of course, your career is important to you, but your health should be as well. Don't spend another day hunched over your desk suffering from back pain. A new ergonomically designed workstation can put a stop your suffering, whether you work in your home or at an office. Plus, it is a great way to use your FSA/HSA money before you lose it.
If you are ready to take the next step in your overall wellness and learn more about the benefits a standing desk can bring to you, we are here to back you up.
Before your desk arrives, there are ways, you can help reduce back pain, and one of them is starting with good posture. Being mindful of your posture and correcting when necessary can help improve the health of your spine.
