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Money Minute
Seeking Medical Discounts

Maintaining your health can be costly, but it doesn’t have to break your budget. Here are some tips to keep you on track throughout the year.

First, check with your employer for discounts - some companies offer discounts on premiums and deductibles to employees who participate in wellness programs. Examples include getting your flu shot or participating in a health club. These programs promote healthy behavior in employees with hopes that this will lower overall healthcare costs for the entire company.

Next, ask medical providers about discounts for paying upfront. Many doctors offer discounts if you are able to pay all charges in full at the time of your visit. They would much rather have a bill settled at the time of service, than have unpaid receivables on their books.

Many providers will also consider discounts if you pay in cash. Again, they receive their full fee and are able to avoid paying service charges to credit card companies or bank charges for processing checks.

While we may not normally think of getting discounts when going to the doctor, it doesn’t hurt to ask – whether it is your doctor, your hospital or your pharmacy.


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