Great Tips For Helping You Save On Your Health Care Costs

If you’re having trouble managing healthcare expenses, you aren’t alone. The costs of visiting your doctor, paying copays, and filling prescriptions continue to go up.

Your health is so important. You don’t want to skip necessary appointments or tests that you need.

With a little detective work and some smart comparison shopping, you can reduce your healthcare expenses. Take a look at some tips you can use to save money on your health care costs.

Shop Around for Insurance

Before you purchase a health insurance plan, you should understand how it works and if it’s the right plan for you. If you take part in a company insurance plan where you work, you usually save money this way. But this isn’t always the case.

Be sure to investigate other plans to make sure you’re getting the most for your money. It’s tempting to buy the cheapest plan, but this could cost you later.

Make sure you have a clear picture of the procedures the insurer will cover and whether or not you get to choose your doctor. Check for plans that offer healthy lifestyle discounts as well.

Ask for Generics

When your doctor prescribes a drug, ask about the price. Always check if there’s a generic substitute that’s cheaper.

If you’ve been paying a fortune for your prescriptions, you’ve probably been paying for name-brand medications. It makes sense to discuss this with your doctor.

As long as you have no adverse reaction, you can save a lot of money with generic versions of your prescriptions.

Ask for Free Samples

Pharmaceutical reps supply doctors’ offices with samples of their latest and most popular drugs. Doctors may have multiple drug samples on hand for the asking.

Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor for free samples of your prescriptions. They may not offer them unless you ask.

Any medication you don’t have to purchase saves you money. Even a one or two-week supply will help.

Apply for a Patient Assistance Program

If you are having trouble paying for your medications, you can apply for a patient assistance program or grant. Drug companies and nonprofit organizations offer a variety of assistance programs.

In some cases, you must demonstrate a financial need to qualify. The income limit for some programs is surprisingly high, so don’t hesitate to apply.

If they approve your application, you could save quite a bit on your medications. You may need to reapply once a year to continue on the program.

Appeal Denied Claims

Insurance companies deny claims on a regular basis. This is how they save money.

That leaves you paying for expensive tests or medical care your insurer refused to cover. Before you pay the bill, try appealing the decision.

The appeal process varies from company to company. Appealing usually involves filling out forms requesting the insurer reconsider the denial.

You may need to get a letter from your doctor explaining why you need the procedure. Doctors are usually willing to help with this, so be sure to ask.

If your insurance company denies a claim, filing an appeal is your only option.

Negotiate Medical Services

If you need a medical service, and your insurance won’t pay, you have options. Let your medical provider know you are paying out-of-pocket.

In some situations, medical providers will lower service costs for patients with no insurance or for those with limited coverage. Even if you can’t get a reduction, you may be able to set up a payment plan with no or low interest that works with your budget.

In some situations, home-health services are cheaper and a better alternative for patients.

Review Your Medical Bills

Take a close look at your medical bills before paying them. Mistakes in billing are common in the healthcare field.

If you pay your medical bills without reviewing the charges, you may end up paying too much or paying for services you never received. There could be a simple mistake in the charges or in coding that can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Any potential error can cost you. Don’t hesitate to call the provider or ask for a more detailed bill. Question anything that doesn’t seem right to you.

Avoid the Emergency Room When Possible

Save the emergency room for life-threatening situations. For minor accidents or non-emergency health issues, visit your doctor or an urgent care center.

The ER will be more expensive than another healthcare provider. Chances are, they will perform a battery of expensive tests you may not need.

Walk-in clinics are cheaper and faster. They provide many of the same services as the ER without the high prices and long wait time.

Save With a Flexible Spending Account

A flexible spending account (FSA) allows you to save money toward medical expenses throughout the year. A pre-tax deduction lowers your taxable income, and this reduces the amount you owe in taxes.

If your healthcare costs remain steady and predictable, an FSA may be a good choice.

Some employers offer an FSA as an option. Remember that you’ll forfeit any unused money by the end of the year, so save only what you think you may need for medical costs.

Take Care of Yourself

The best way to stay healthy and out of the doctor’s office is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eating right, watching your weight, and getting some exercise all contribute to good health.

Regardless of age, everyone benefits from some form of activity. Whether it’s tennis, swimming, or a walk around the block, try to find something that you enjoy.

Taking care of yourself now and as you age can save you healthcare dollars in the future.

Try Telemedicine

Telemedicine is gaining in popularity each year. Seeing a doctor remotely is convenient and often cheaper.

Telemedicine companies are popping up around the country. Some doctors offer a telemedicine option in addition to in-office appointments.

Depending on your medical problem and insurance coverage, telemedicine may be a good option. For serious issues, you should see your doctor in person.

Saving on Health Care Costs

As healthcare prices increase, you can do a lot to keep your out-of-pocket costs to a minimum. There are many ways to save money on your health care costs while still getting the quality care you need.

If you are looking for quality healthcare in the Toledo or Findlay area, contact us today.