Getting Your Money’s Worth from Doctor’s Visits: The How-to Guide
Although regular physical exams are vital to a person’s health, many go years without seeing a doctor. Skyrocketing healthcare costs, long waitlists, inability to find a doctor, and previous negative experiences with medical professionals are urging the masses to forgo physician visits and put off life-saving medical care. However, regular check-ups can help catch early warning signs of chronic illness, ultimately saving the patient money and time during treatment.
Unfortunately, dismissive or misguided physicians run rampant in the healthcare industry, deterring patients from seeking future medical care. When doctors refuse treatment, offer ill-fitting advice, or ignore concerns, patients often leave frustrated without a solution to their health concerns.
Medical appointments can also be quite expensive, ranging from $300-$600 without health insurance or more if specialized care or medications are needed. People without insurance often choose to forego physical examinations altogether, as many don’t believe the cost is worth the benefit.
However, abstaining from regular medical exams can lead to adverse health effects. To reap healthcare benefits without breaking the bank, research insurance plans from marketplaces like this to ensure physicals are a financial possibility. If your budget lacks room for comprehensive health insurance, ensure you’re maximizing the time you do spend at the doctors to get the biggest bang for your buck.
How to see a doctor without breaking the bank
Contrary to popular beliefs, medical visits don’t have to cost a fortune. If you have insurance, make sure the doctor accepts your coverage and is in-network before scheduling your visit. Some plans require a referral or pre-authorization, so be sure to check your package’s benefits before trying to schedule an appointment. To make sure you get the most out of your visit, schedule your meeting in the morning, so the doctor is not running behind schedule.
Getting the most out of a doctor’s visit
Even with insurance, a doctor’s visit can be expensive and pulls valuable time from your day. To ensure you’re getting the most out of a visit, write down questions as you think of them before seeing the doctor. That way, when head-out for your appointment, you can simply read your list off to ensure you don’t forget a symptom that may ordinarily slip under your radar.
Take advantage of what you’re paying for
Don’t forget you’re funneling financial resources into your appointments and carving out valuable time out of your day to see a doctor. Any reliable physician will demonstrate a genuine interest in your medical hardships, so don’t be afraid to express your needs and alert your primary care physician of abnormal growths, worrisome discoloration, or out-of-the-ordinary discomfort.. Additionally, before you make an appointment, notify the receptionist of any unique circumstances that might require a specialist or extra time with a primary care physician.
Ask questions
Doctors have years of specific training and sometimes speak in confusing medical jargon the average person may not understand. Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor questions, as it’s their job is to help you navigate complicated health concerns and clarify any confusion. Remember, this is your health at stake, and it’s critical you understand what steps to take after you leave your appointment.
Be honest
One too many unhelpful or judgemental visits to the doctors can deter people from being honest about lifestyle habits and symptoms. However, remaining truthful with your physician about ailments will ensure you’re receiving the best care possible. If you’re experiencing issues with a doctor, consider switching physicians or reporting them to the facility. Medical professionals should remain impartial and non-judgemental to better aid their patients.
The bottom line
Although healthcare can be tricky to navigate on a budget, engaging in consistent check-ups can save you from life-altering ailments. Evade expensive consultations by carefully selecting a healthcare plan, being open and honest with your physician, and engaging in healthy behaviors outside of your annual check-ups.
