5 Simple Ways to Lower Your Health Care Costs
We all know health care can be expensive. But getting the care you need when you need it is extremely important. Avoiding doctor visits or not filling your prescriptions can lead to bigger and more expensive health issues down the road.
The good news? There are five simple ways to save money and get cost-effective care that keeps you healthy.
1. See In-Network Providers
One of the easiest ways to save money on health care is by staying in-network with your health insurance plan. If you have a Blue Cross and Blue Shield (BCBS) of Texas health plan, there are specific doctors, hospitals, and clinics that are part of your network. These are known as "in-network providers."
When you see an in-network provider, your insurance will cover a larger portion of your medical costs, and you’ll pay less out of pocket. If you go to a provider that is not in your network, you will likely have to pay a much higher portion of the costs. In some cases, your insurance might not cover any of the expenses.
To find in-network providers, check your insurance plan’s website or call the customer service number on your insurance card. If you don’t yet have a primary care provider, visit the Innovista Medical Center provider directory where you can search by name, city, or zip code. Innovista accepts Medicare, as well as all Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas plans.
2. Choose Generic Prescriptions If Possible
Taking your medications as prescribed is extremely important. Skipping doses can reduce the medicine’s effectiveness, worsen your symptoms, and make health issues harder to treat. One of the best ways to save money on your medications is by choosing generic medications over brand-name ones.
When a medication first hits the market, it is sold under a brand name. The company that created it can charge higher prices because they hold the patent. After a certain amount of time, other companies can make the same drug and sell it under its generic name, which makes it less expensive and affordable for you.
If you’re unsure whether a generic version is available, ask your health care provider or pharmacist.
3. Use Your Benefits
Many health insurance plans offer a variety of benefits that can help you save money. The key is to know what your plan offers and use those benefits.
One big money saver is preventive care. This means going for regular check-ups, staying current with vaccines, and getting health screenings that can catch problems early, before they become more serious and expensive. In fact, most insurance plans cover preventive care for free.
Patient care coordinators can also help to guide you through the health care system. They can help you manage chronic health conditions, which can save you time and money by helping you avoid unnecessary hospital visits and other costly health care expenditures.
Plus, many insurance plans offer discounts on things like fitness and weight loss programs, condition management programs, or even alternative therapies like chiropractic care. Check your plan’s benefits to see if any of these services are included.
4. Have a Plan for Urgent or Emergency Care
When you’re in need of urgent care or emergency care, having a plan can save you time and money. Without a plan, you might end up in an emergency room (ER) for a situation that could have been handled at a more affordable urgent care center or your primary care provider’s office.
If you’re experiencing a true medical emergency, such as chest pain, severe injury, or difficulty breathing, go to the ER immediately. For situations that aren’t life-threatening but still require quick attention—like a sprained ankle, sore throat, or the flu—visit urgent care.
It’s important to know what urgent care centers are nearby and what your insurance covers before you need them. This can help you make quick decisions in a stressful situation and prevent expensive bills later.
5. Take Advantage of Telehealth
Many health issues can be handled through telehealth—a video call with your provider. Telehealth is often much cheaper than an in-person visit.
Telehealth is a great option if you're feeling too sick to leave the house or need a follow-up after a past appointment. For example, telehealth can work well for things like a cold or flu, skin rash, or checking in about how a treatment is going.
Check with your insurance company to see if telehealth visits are covered and how much you would pay out of pocket.
Staying Healthy Can Be Affordable
With just a few smart choices and a bit of planning, you can lower your health care costs and still get the care you need. Whether it’s choosing in-network doctors, asking for generic prescriptions, using the benefits your insurance plan offers, or knowing where to go when you’re sick, each step can make a big difference.
