Jonah JacobsHave you ever been hit with surprise medical fees on a bill that was so high, there was no way you could pay it? If so, that was no pleasant surprise, as this common issue can get so bad that it can lead to bankruptcy.
Well, before you make the mistake of not getting the medical care you need to live a long and healthy life, we’ll reveal the two simple questions you can ask to keep those surprising charges on bills at bay.
The Importance of Preventative Screenings
Many medical issues can be stopped dead in their tracks before they get serious by getting preventative screenings. If you’re worried about the cost of such screenings, you shouldn’t, as they should be free whether you have insurance through the Affordable Care Act, Medicare, or your employer.
There are approximately 30 preventive services that you can take advantage of at no cost, such as:
- Cancer screenings
- Mammograms
- Colonoscopies
- Tests for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
- Well-baby and well-child visits up to age 21
- Counseling for weight loss, depression, smoking, alcohol, and substance abuse
While such free screenings seem like a great idea, statistics show that they’re not so popular.
Less than 10 percent of adults over 35 get all of their recommended preventive screenings. And 10 percent of men avoid such screenings altogether.
What can skipping preventative screenings result in? Minor health issues that blossom into serious ones. And with that severity comes the possibility of astronomical expenses that can break your bank.
How to Get Preventive Screenings Without Surprise Expenses
What can keep someone from getting the screenings they need to know where their health stands? A fear of high costs. But as mentioned, most of those screenings are free.
Where does an expense problem come into play? When you forget to ask these questions when your doctor says you need to take a test:
- “Is the test preventive or diagnostic?”
- “Why is it necessary?”
If the test is preventive, you’re good to go, as it should be free. But if it’s diagnostic, you will probably have to pay at least something for that lab test, even if you’re insured.
For example, let’s say the doctor recommends a simple blood test. That could result in a $40 copay. While not a ton, it’s money that could be used for groceries or to pay a bill.
Even worse, let’s say the doctor recommends an MRI. That could cost $3,500 and hit you with 20 percent coinsurance, which can surely put a massive dent in your budget.
What’s the moral of the story? Always ask and get confirmation of what is being ordered. You want clarity regarding the procedure’s necessity, the cost, and if your insurance will cover it. Without that clarity, you could get hit with an unpleasant surprise. And if you already had the procedure, it’ll be too late, and you certainly won’t get a refund.
Besides asking your doctor, you can get clarity on suggested procedures by doing one of the following:
- Calling 1-800-Medicare if you have Medicare.
- Calling your insurer.
- Asking your employer’s HR department.
