Cutting Back

According to a recent study, 50 percent of Americans admitted to skipping a doctor or dentist visit because it was too expensive. While medical care can be costly, there are ways to make it more affordable. Here are some tips to keep things in check.

Ask Questions

When you receive medical care, remember it’s your body and your money. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Ask the provider if your insurance will cover the treatment. Ask them about missed payment or late payment fees. Ask them about prior authorization. Ask them anything you can think of, as that will save you a headache (and likely money) down the road.

Get Coverage

If you don’t have any medical insurance, it’s time to look into getting covered. Insurance will save you money in the long run. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, you can find plans for as little as $10 per month. Use Healthcare.gov to search for a plan that works for you and your family.

Read Up

As USA Today notes, once you have insurance, read through the plan carefully. The more you know about the coverage, the more you’ll save. For example, many plans offer coverage for things like attending the gym regularly.

Shop Around

Shop around for any medications that you are prescribed. Many times prices can fluctuate from city to city, or even store to store. You can also shop online, where you might find generic medications at a more affordable price.