By Gregg Newby, Contributing Writer, myOptumHealth
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When it comes to saving money on health care, some ideas are better than others. Yet many people are so desperate to trim costs, they end up compromising their health. According to one statistic, nearly 30 percent of all patients try to save money by cutting out things they shouldn't.
But skipping the necessities never really puts you ahead. In the long run, it only costs you more. When illness goes untreated it will likely get worse, causing you to need even more care. And that means more bills to pay. In the long run, you come out behind on both your health and your finances. That's why certain cost-cutting techniques are always a bad idea.
1. Don't ignore your symptoms. Illness and injury take a toll on the body when left untreated. Putting off a doctor's visit is no way to save money. The fees you pay today are minor to the ones you'll pay if the problem persists. If money is an issue, find a doctor who will work with you. Or try looking into pro bono or charity care. Who knows? You might just qualify.
2. Don't put off a procedure. Postponing a needed surgery or other procedure isn't advised. It may be expensive, but putting it off could cost you even more. Instead, try negotiating lower fees with the doctor or the hospital. And if the bill is too much to pay at once, contact the billing office to work out a payment plan.
3. Don't pass up tests or x-rays. Doctors need them to better assess your symptoms. They're the first step toward a proper diagnosis. When you decline a test or x-ray, your doctor may not be able to help you. Instead, have a frank discussion with your caregiver. Explain that funds are limited and ask that tests be kept at a minimum.
4. Don't skip your meds. Fill your prescriptions and take them as directed. If you don't, you might as well not go to the doctor at all. Besides, there are plenty of ways to save money on prescriptions. Ask about generic substitutes or larger tablets that can be broken in half. Try finding a discount pharmacy or ordering your prescriptions in bulk. If you're on Medicare, apply for Extra Help and other savings programs.
5. Don't put off dental care. What starts in the mouth can spread to other parts of the body. New research suggests some heart problems are tied to dental problems. If you are concerned about costs, try finding a dental school that will treat you for less. There are also affordable discount plans that can help you save between 20 percent and 30 percent on visits and procedures.
6. Don't cancel your coverage. Those monthly premiums may seem steep, especially if don't go to the doctor very often. But cancelling your insurance is one of the worst things you can do for yourself. You might save a couple hundred bucks each month, but what if there's an emergency? If you're relatively healthy, consider switching to a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) with low premiums. Whatever you do, you should always have some kind of health insurance. You never know when you're going to need it.
View the original Saving on health care: the 6 don'ts article on myOptumHealth.com
SOURCES:
- Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). Questions and answers about health insurance: a consumer's guide. August 2007. Accessed: 07/06/2009
- Pilzer PZ. The New Health Insurance Solution: How to Get Cheaper, Better Coverage without a Traditional Plan. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons; 2007.
- Fried C. Take a bite out of dental costs. Money Magazine. January 25, 2006. Accessed: 07/06/2009
- Shepherd LC. Economic crisis makes waves in drug, medical claims activity. Employee Benefit News. Accessed: 07/06/2009
- Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation. Medicare Part D 2009: Low-income subsidy plan availability. November 2008. Accessed: 07/06/2009
