5 simple ways to keep your health costs in check
Living paycheck to paycheck is a reality for 67 percent of U.S. workers. The financial stress and uncertainty can affect overall well-being and lead to difficult decisions, such as delaying medical exams or going without health insurance coverage.
Health care costs are a major factor. American spent an average of $1,632 out of pocket on health care in 2024. It's no surprise that, according to USA Facts, 26 percent of American adults say they delayed some form of medical treatment because of the cost.
Instead of delaying the care you need, let us help you make the most of your health coverage.
Tips for managing your health care costs
Knowing how your health plan works can help you get the most from your benefits and manage your health care expenses.
Here are some things to consider:
1.
Build a relationship with an in-network primary care provider (PCP)
One of the best ways to save on long-term health care costs is finding a primary care provider you know and trust. When you develop a relationship with a PCP, they can help identify potential health concerns earlier.
When choosing a PCP (or any provider for that matter), it's important to make sure they are in-network. Some health plans don't offer out-of-network benefits other than in emergency situations, so it's important to know your network before you receive care. Log in to myWellmark® to search for in-network providers.
2.
Don't skip on preventive care
It’s a fact: preventive care leads to better health outcomes. That's because your doctor can help identify health conditions in their early stages when they are easier and less costly to treat. It also serves as an opportunity to get all your health questions answered and stay up-to-date on your immunizations and blood tests. Depending on your health plan benefits, preventive care may be available at no cost to you.
Just make sure to check your preventive care benefits before your visit. Depending on your health plan, you might need to see your PCP for preventive care to be covered at no cost.
3.
Watch for billing errors
When you get a bill from your health care provider, or an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from Wellmark, be sure to review it. An error on a bill or EOB could result in additional out-of-pocket costs or even a denial in coverage. If your claim didn't pay correctly or how you expected, be sure to:
- Contact Wellmark Customer Service. Use the phone number on the back of your ID card or submit a question through myWellmark.
- Talk to your provider. Talk to a billing specialist about your claim.
- File a claims appeal. If you don't agree with a benefit decision, you have the right to file a claims appeal. This must be done within 180 days of when the claim was processed.
4.
Research imaging centers ahead of time
Diagnostic tests like bone density screenings, breast imaging, CT scans and MRIs are often necessary, but they come with a high price tag. Even if your doctor recommends a specific facility for a test, it’s still a good idea to do a little research first. Log in to myWellmark to find costs for services and procedures based on your plan, health care provider and/or facility.
5.
Have a pharmacy home
It’s convenient to grab your prescriptions when you happen to be at the grocery or retail store. But, it’s best to have one place — a pharmacy home — where you develop a relationship with a pharmacist you trust. Find a pharmacist who understands and can explain the prescriptions, over-the-counter medications and supplements you may be taking and is as cost conscious as you are.
Stay ahead of the costs with myWellmark
myWellmark is your source for personalized health insurance information. When you log in to myWellmark, you can:
- Find relevant information related to your specific benefits.
- Keep track of the services you and your family have used.
- Find an in-network doctor or facility near you.
- Know what your visit will cost you before you go.
- See how close you are to meeting your deductible or out-of-pocket maximums.
- Track and organize your family’s medical expenses.
- Pay your Wellmark bill online, depending on your health plan.
If you don’t have a myWellmark account, what are you waiting for? Registration takes less than two minutes — get started today.