Everyone can use a little guided support getting through the healthcare maze.

This information series is a roadmap that will give you a good understanding for how it all works.Everyone can use a little guided support getting

through the healthcare maze.

This information series is a roadmap that will give you a good understanding for how it all works.

This information series is a roadmap that will give you a good understanding for how it all works.

We’ll break down our complex healthcare system into 5 key questions. Each question is important, and the valuable

information you’ll find will help you make informed decisions.

We’ll focus on the complex question “What Does it Cost”? We’ll talk about why understanding healthcare costs matters and give you tips to

help you find answers about your own health care cost questions.

At some point in life, any one of us can find healthcare costs becoming an unexpected issue. It’s important to learn about

choices you can make to manage costs for you and your family.

The increasing use of technology in healthcare means consumers have access to more information than ever before, including costs of care. However, costs can still vary greatly between providers,

locations, and types of care.

When you shop for clothes, you’re presented with many personal choices. Finding the right fit, style, quality, along with cost are all things

you’ll consider before making a choice that’s right for you.

Shopping for healthcare also presents you with a number of different options and considerations. Hospitals of equal quality can charge very

different prices, even if they’re down the street from each other.

Additionally, surgery costs can vary by surgeons. In some instances, less experienced physicians may have higher costs

than more experienced physicians.

Different treatments might be available that may be a better fit for you.

There can even be significant price differences for the same medication, with no difference in quality - just one has a brand name on it. Always ask your

doctor or pharmacist if a generic brand is available. Don’t make the mistake that higher costs equals better care. That is NOT always the case.

In a NY insurers survey, a colonoscopy at a doctor’s office averaged $450. But in a Chicago outpatient center you may

find yourself paying over $6,000. Do you think that there was a difference in the care that was delivered? You have a choice of

where to go and it can make a big difference.

Ask your health insurance or employer if they provide access to a price transparency tool. There are also free services available

online. Use them! It pays to shop around.

Costs vary for different services: Lab tests vs. Xrays - Medications vs. surgery. Talk to your doctor.

Make sure they get the diagnosis right.

There are differences between urgent care and emergency; visits to primary care vs. a specialist; a

doctor’s office vs. a hospital outpatient facility.

Understand your out of pocket cost, copays and combined costs for things like surgeries, therapy treatments, and

medication, your deductibles, and best value.

Download our free guide for more detailed information to confirm if your diagnosis is correct. It’s free!

Get our free guide below that’s filled with detailed information on what to look for when planning your healthcare costs.