5 Ways to Cut your Healthcare Costs
Healthcare costs are a growing concern across the United States. But are you evaluating all of the ways to pocket just a little extra money and trim down some of your expenses? Below you’ll find 5 strategies you can try to make healthcare costs seem less daunting.
Use in-network providers when possible. An in-network provider is a provider who is contracted with your health insurance company to provide services at pre-negotiated rates. In general, if you visit an in-network provider, you will get your healthcare at a lower price.
Ask the right questions. Asking the right questions can help you decide what treatment plan is best for both your health and your wallet. Some useful questions to ask your doctor include the following:
- Why is this treatment necessary?
- How much will my treatment cost?
- Can I be treated another way that is equally effective but less costly?
Keep drug costs down. By being a wise healthcare consumer you may be able to cut down your prescription drug costs significantly. Strategies to help you save money on prescription drugs include the following:
- Shop around local pharmacies to find the best price on your prescription
- Ask your doctor about generic or over-the-counter drug alternatives to brand name prescriptions
- Look into discount prescription programs and couponing
Practice prevention. In its broadest definition, prevention includes healthy lifestyle, exercise, diet and other similar efforts. When preventive care services like physical examinations, screenings, and immunizations are combined with a lifestyle that is focused on wellness, significant savings can be achieved.
Take control of your healthcare. Ask your doctor the right questions, conduct comparisons, read reviews and review all medical bills carefully. Some specific ideas include:
- Use the estimator tool on your insurance carrier’s website.
- Use independent labs versus ones affiliated with a hospital.
- Use ambulatory surgical centers versus a hospital.
- Use telehealth, urgent care facilities or your primary care physician instead of emergency room visits.
- Become engaged in case/care management – pick up the phone when your insurance company calls.
Questions about your healthcare plan? Contact our experts today!
Robert Glus, FSA, MAAA, FCA
Partner and Consulting Actuary
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