Ben Sutherly:10 Ways To Save On Medical Bills

1. Consider telemedicine - The savings for consumers can be significant, especially if you are enrolled in a high-deductible plan and responsible for more than an office co-pay
2. Ask about a prompt-pay discount - Consider calling your provider’s billing office and asking for a discount if you pay the balance immediately
3. Invest in health savings accounts - If you can afford to contribute to a HSA, sometimes, your employer will match your contributions
4. Use transparency tools - Most large employers offer them, many workers don’t use them
5. Seek drug discounts - Have a conversation with your doctor about using the generic equivalent of a brand-name pharmaceutical
6. Request an itemized bill - Make sure you got charged for what was performed
7. Don’t overlook employer discounts - Many companies offer incentives, including premium deductions, if you take part in their wellness programs
8. Don’t be overinsured - Make sure you consider the degree to which you use health care
9. Consider alternatives to the emergency room - Mishaps that can’t wait for medical treatment are best handled through a less-pricey urgent-care center
10. Look beyond price - Quality and safety should be on your radar and with lower costs, you can sometimes forfeit choice

Source: The Columbus Dispatch
Source URL: http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/life_and_entertainme...

Printer-friendly versionSend to friendmore...