Here are some tips on how you can plan to save on your healthcare costs in 2010:
- Know your monthly premium. Budget for that amount.
- Know your annual deductible and save for it.
(This is the amount you will pay out-of-pocket before coverage) - Ask your employer about flexible spending account (FSA) or healthcare savings account (HSA).
- Ask your doctor if he or she performs minimally invasive procedures.
- Ask if your procedure can be done on an outpatient basis to avoid expensive hospitalization.
- Planning surgery? Ask how much it will cost and budget for out-of-pocket expenses.
- Lose weight and exercise. Healthy lifestyles prevent illnesses such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
- Experiencing worrisome symptoms? See a doctor before expensive surgery is required.
