7 ways to save money on health care

Tuesday, September 05, 2006

Household budgets are getting a lot tighter for many families. The latest census report shows nearly half of middle-income families are concerned about paying for health insurance or medical care.

There are ways to reduce health care costs without jeopardizing your health. Dr. Scott Eathorne, medical director of Providence Medical Group, suggests seven strategies for saving money and staying healthy:

1. Consider generic drugs when looking for medication alternatives. This is especially helpful when buying medicine for chronic conditions.

2. Buy over-the-counter versions of prescription drugs for things such as allergies. They often cost less, and will save you money if prescription medicines are not covered by insurance.

3. Comparison shop. There is a wide range of prices for prescription and over-the-counter medications. It pays to shop for the best price.

4. Select a health plan carefully. Look for one that offers discounts for healthy behaviors. These plans often encourage preventive health care and pay for screening exams.

5. Talk to your physician. Explain your financial situation so your doctor will consider costs when ordering tests and recommending care.

6. Ask for help. Many health care systems have programs to assist patients who don't have insurance. There also are social agencies that may offer help. Your doctor's office is a good place to begin to ask questions about programs that may be right for you.

7. Don't sign up for tests you don't need in anticipation of changing or losing your health insurance. You should definitely take advantage of any screening tests your physician recommends. But having inappropriate tests can cost you money in the long run. If there is a false positive result, that may hurt your chances of getting insurance or preferred rates in the future.

You can watch morning anchor Carolyn Clifford's Health Edge reports starting at 5 a.m. weekdays during "WXYZ Channel 7 Action News."

source:http://detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060905/LIFESTYLE02/609050377/1039