Happy 2025 to all of you. I hope that this year is filled with happiness and good health!
Healthcare can be expensive. Insurance is costly and will usually cover the majority of the bills but it doesn’t always cover everything. The out of pocket expenses can be significant. This month’s column will hopefully help you to save some money and mitigate some of the out of pocket expenses.
The best way to save money on healthcare is to be healthy! Easier said than done, I know. Avoiding alcohol and smoking, frequent exercise, eating lean meats, vegetables and fruits, drinking plenty of water and adequate sleep. Simple, right? Well, when things don’t go right, here are some ways to hopefully save some money.
1. Regular appointments with your physician. Preventative medicine is the most effective method to stay healthy and save costs. It may seem foolish to see your doctor when you are healthy, but the examinations and blood work can catch an issue before it becomes serious. Serious illness is expensive. There is no greater return on preventative care than with your teeth. See your dentist regularly and practice good oral health. Many insurances don’t cover dental care so preventing the root canals, fillings, and dentures will make a significant difference.
2. Choose a health plan that is right for you. When young and healthy, a higher deductible plan will save money in the long run. As you age or if you are ill, a higher premium will provide more robust coverage which may ultimately save money. Shop around yearly or every couple of years to compare coverages. Try to use an independent broker who has your best interest in mind.
3. Use a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Flexible Savings Account (FSA). These programs allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars for healthcare expenses. Each program has its pros and cons, speak to your tax advisor or accountant for more information.
4. Know your insurance plan and benefits. All too often patients have no idea of their coverage limits and benefits. If the plan rules are not followed, it can cost you a ton of money. You may need a referral or pre-authorization for tests or procedures. Always check with your primary care physician prior to seeing specialists or other practitioners. Choose in-network providers and outpatient facilities when possible. Take advantage of programs and discounts offered by your insurance plan.
5. Lower the cost of prescriptions. Ask for generic alternatives for medicine. Also, look into discount programs which may help to lower the costs.
6. Choose high quality foods. As I have mentioned in previous columns, higher quality food is more nutritious. It may be more expensive but it is better for you in the long run.
7. Eat less. The biggest issue we have in America is portion control. We just flat out eat too much! With smaller portions, your groceries will last longer. Sometimes the simple answers are the best ones.
8. Stop wasting your money. I believe I have devoted some part of almost every column I have written to poke holes in the innumerable myths and charlatans on the “misinformation” highway. If you step back and think about all the money you have spent on vitamins, supplements, gadgets, braces, etc., you might be surprised. Always pause before making a decision on your health. There are a million quick fixes for everything. Use your common sense, If it is too good to be true, triple check it before purchasing!
If you have any questions that I can answer in future articles, please feel free to email me at scacciaptsc@aol.com.
Yours in Health,
Bob Scaccia PT
Scaccia Physical Therapy Windham, NH
Dracut Physical Therapy Dracut, MA
Milestone Fitness, Windham
*Originally written for the Pelham Evergreen Paper*
