Medical bills can be expensive. For example, the average cost of a hospital stay is around $2,600 in the United States. There are various reasons for this. One of the main reasons is administrative costs. These kinds of costs cover things like insurance processing, billing, and other office expenses. Another reason is the high cost of medical procedures and treatments.
Additionally, the rising medical bills are one of the prime reasons Americans go bankrupt. It’s estimated that about half of the population is in debt due to medical bills. Thankfully, there are ways you can save money on medical bills. Below are three tips on how to do so.
Get a health insurance plan
Health insurance is designed to help cover the costs of medical care. But not all health insurance plans are created equal. Some health insurance plans come from the government. Here are some of them:
Medicare
The government can help you with medical costs if you’re 65 or older, have a disability, or have end-stage renal disease. One way they do this is by offering Medicare. Medicare is a health insurance program that consists of Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). There’s also Part D, which helps cover the costs of prescription drugs. In addition, if you have a limited income, you may qualify for Medicaid.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a government health insurance program for low-income individuals and families. It covers things like doctor visits, hospitalizations, prescriptions, and more. Each state has different eligibility requirements. You can learn more about Medicaid and how to apply for it on your state’s Medicaid program website.
Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides health coverage to eligible children in the United States. CHIP offers low-cost or no-cost health coverage to kids aged 18 or younger. Each state has different eligibility requirements. You can learn more about CHIP and how to apply for it on your state’s CHIP program website.
Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care Program
The Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care Program is a government health insurance program for veterans and their families. It offers many benefits, including primary care, mental health services, prescription drugs, and more. You can learn more about the VA Health Care Program and how to apply for it on the Department of Veterans Affairs website.
Know your rights as a patient
Did you know that you have certain rights as a patient? These rights include the right to receive information about your diagnosis, the right to participate in decision-making about your treatment, and the right to access your medical records. You also have the right to look for other providers, negotiate your bills, and even ask for discounts. Here’s what you need to know about your rights.
Shop around for providers
Not all providers charge the same prices for their services. Take some time to shop around and compare prices before you choose a provider. You may be surprised at how much money you can save by choosing a different provider.
Negotiate your bill
If you are unhappy with the amount of your bill, don’t hesitate to negotiate with your provider. If you can show that you are struggling to pay, many providers will be willing to work out a payment plan or give you a discount on the total amount owed. Never accept the first offer – always try to negotiate!
Ask for discounts
Don’t be afraid to ask for discounts! Many providers offer discounts for cash payments, seniors, or patients with financial needs. Asking for a discount could save you hundreds of dollars on your bill.
Stay Healthy
Lastly, one of the best ways to save on medical bills is to not get sick in the first place. So here are some essential things you should remember when it comes to staying healthy.
Oral Health
Most people tend to forget about their oral health. They also forget that oral cancer is relatively common among people, and it’s pretty costly. One way to avoid oral cancer is by replacing missing teeth.
Missing tooth is a haven for many viruses and bacteria. However, you can avoid oral cancer and many oral diseases by getting teeth replacement services. The implants can also help improve your smile, which can help with your self-confidence. Many dentists offer this service at an affordable rate.
Fitness
Exercise is not only good for your overall health, but it can also help you avoid costly medical bills in the future. Exercise has been shown to prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, and more. It’s never too late to start exercising!
A healthy diet is another crucial factor in staying healthy. Eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases. Limiting your intake of saturated fats, trans fats, and processed foods is also essential.
Saving money on medical bills can seem daunting, but it is possible! By following these three tips, you can put yourself in a much better position to manage your medical expenses without breaking the bank.
