She’s the former Chief of Staff to the President of Hunter College, and has written for publications such as the New York Daily News. Her first book, What Papa Told Me, was endorsed by Elie Wiesel and Yad Vashem and has sold over 30,000 copies around the world. Her next book, 90 Lessons Learned Living Large in 90 Square Feet, is based on her small-space-living blog, “Living Large in Any Space.” She has since moved into an apartment five times the size of that tiny one—and gotten a whole new health insurance plan to boot. Meet Felice, author, blogger, professional organizer, and newly minted Oscar member.
How did you first discover Oscar and what were your first impressions?
I first came across Oscar on WeWork’s emailing list. I had been looking for new health coverage through the Affordable Care Act, but there were so many hoops to jump through, so many articles of proof they needed—I was stalling. Finding Oscar was like a breath of fresh air, the website was so easy to navigate. When I called with questions, the woman I spoke with stayed on the line with me for over 20 minutes and helped me choose the best plan for my needs. Signing up was a cinch, too. Then, the welcome kit arrived. Simple. Clean. Dare I say adorable? And their affiliation with CVS is perfect, since I live next to one.
Have you had a chance to see some of that tech in action?
Yes. The app is amazing. I had to find another OB/GYN, so I went to the app, clicked the “Get Help” button, and was talking to someone within a minute and getting a list of doctors in my neighborhood.
What do you do to stay healthy? And are you using Oscar in any way for that?
I’ve been an athlete my whole life. (I was recruited for Division I volleyball and softball at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.) I go for long bike rides, paddleboard, do yoga, go to the the gym, and walk everywhere. I don’t need much motivation when it comes to staying in shape. However, when I read that Oscar gives you a dollar a day towards an Amazon gift card for hitting your walking goal on the Misfit members get, I thought: Sign. Me. Up. Was I already walking a lot? Yes. But I’ve noticed that as much as I was walking, now I’m walking even more.
How would you describe your relationship with Oscar?
I love Oscar because I think it’s smart healthcare. Paying you to stay in shape, means they are paying less when you’re sick.