Health care savings is an area of family budgeting and cutting expenses that many people overlook.  People often take for granted that health care is expensive and there is nothing they can do to change it.  This guide will enable one to find health care cost savings:

• Preventive Care:  Preventative care requires having a physical on a regular basis.  Preventative care also requires patients to seek medical care when a problem begins.  People often wait until the problem becomes severe to seek medical attention.  For example, a patient might have sinus congestion and a small cough.  Left untreated, this condition may turn into an upper respiratory infection and even pneumonia.
• Ask for Prescription Samples:  Many drug companies provide samples to doctors’ offices.  When visiting your health care provider, ask if they have any samples of the prescription available.  Most doctors are happy to provide samples and adjust the prescription.
• Purchase Generic Medications:  Ask your physician to prescribe the generic brand of medication.  Generic brands are significantly less expensive than name brands and are just as effective.
• Manage Weight Issues:  One of the best ways to save money on weight related health care is to talk to your provider about books, diet plans and nutritional information.  Do not waste money on weight loss programs and products for weight loss.  Maintaining a healthy weight and changing one’s lifestyle will prevent later medical problems and save money on health care costs.
• Brush and Floss Teeth:  Save money on dental health care by brushing and flossing teeth regularly.  Many dental health bills can be prevented by taking proper care of your teeth and gums.
• Teeth Coating:  Having cavities filled is a major dental health care expense.  Once children have their permanent teeth, have their teeth coated.  The money saved from reduced cavities will more than pay for the cost of coating their teeth.
• Vaccinations:  Keep vaccinations up to date.  One of the easiest ways to save money on vaccines is to watch the local paper for publically sponsored vaccinations.  Inquire at the local health department about vaccines that are free or offered at a reduced cost for the general public, even for those with medical insurance.
• Use Sun Block:  Skin cancers and other dermatology complications can arise from sun burns and sun exposure.  Save money on health care by using sun block year round.
• Medical Schools:  Some money on health care costs can be saved if there is a medical school in the area. Students are supervised and often schools charge minimal to no fees for the health care services provided. 
• Shopping for Insurance:  Shop around when purchasing an insurance plan.  Ask the agent about senior citizen, family and other available discounts.  Look at deductible options and co-pays.  Inquire about available coalitions or buying groups.
• Save Receipts for Taxes:  Health care expenses that are not covered by insurance can be deducted from taxes if high enough.  Keep all receipts for prescriptions, co-pays, over the counter medications, and health care products.  Many people qualify for medical deductions on their taxes
• Parking Fees and Mileage:  Keep receipts for parking and track mileage associated with health care.  Mileage for support groups are also tax deductible as a medical expense.
• Wear Glasses:  Contact lenses require storage cases and cleaning solutions.  The cost of expensive eye glasses with nice frames and scratch proof lenses is less expensive then the money spent for contact maintenance.  Save money on optical health by wearing glasses rather than contacts.
   

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© 2009 Employers’ Coalition for Healthcare, Inc.