There is no denying that healthcare is becoming more and more expensive. For the most part it’s very difficult for people to afford doctor appointments, medication and several other tiny details that lead to huge payments. But there is some good news for those who are willing to take extra precaution and save on healthcare costs.
Ask For Generic Alternatives
It’s rather shocking to think that the generic alternative can be up to 80% cheaper than branded medicine. The misconception is that they aren’t as effective, but the truth is they contain exactly the same compounds according to the FDA. In other words, they work just as well at the fraction of the cost. The next time the doctor writes out a prescription, ask if there is a generic option.
Approach Pharmacies Like Shopping Malls
In most cases people go to doctors that work in an area close to them. This usually results in getting the prescription filled at the nearest pharmacy. What people don’t realize is that pharmacies operate in much the same way as retail stores do. These are private or franchise establishments at the end of the day and just because they rarely appear in big marketing fields, they do compete. Don’t be scared to research prices and make comparisons.
Consider A Savings Or Medical Plan
It’s not something the majority of people would like to believe, but in the end it will save a lot of money to simply and go see a financial consultant about some kind of plan. Thanks to all the competition between healthcare providers it shouldn’t be too hard to find something affordable, but will make all the difference when needed most.
Be Inquisitive
Always remember that if it’s a private consultation, you are paying for it. In other words, you are a client. As a matter of fact, you are paying quite a lot, so don’t be scared to ask about scheduled tests and whether they are really necessary.
A recent New York Times article reported that doctor consultations are becoming shorter and shorter due to budget cuts from the government. Now they have to see more patients in order to make what they used to. It also reported that doctors are getting more paranoid about making a diagnosis due to the lack of time they spend with the patient. This leads to specialists and testing that cost a lot of money.
Pay Attention To Bills
The MMBA openly stated that an average of 8 out of 10 medical bills contain some kind of error. This is enough reason to pay a lot more to the details of the medical bills that reach your home. Just because doctors are held in high regard doesn’t mean they can’t make mistakes. However, these are rather shocking numbers and it does raise some questions.
Sign up for an AmeriPlan Discount Health Care Plan
AmeriPlan offers four levels of discount dental and medical plans to help you save money on health and dental care. AmeriPlan isn’t health or dental insurance, but it works with your insurance to save on out of pocket expenses. Read this FAQ HERE to learn how you can save up to 60% on expensive dental procedures, get a state-of-the-art TeleDoc physician access and your own healthcare advocate to help you sort out your hospital bills.
Conclusion
It’s in your best interest to stay on top of things that happen in the medical community. There is always some way to make things a little easier and to save on healthcare costs is no different.
AmeriPlan discount health and dental plans are designed to save you money while providing the health and dental care you and your family needs. Get started now and you’ll be amazed at the level of medical and dental services and the low cost.
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