How to Lower Your Medical Bills
On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Health And Fitness Skills
Medical expenses can be daunting, but with proactive measures and informed decisions, you can minimize the financial burden. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help reduce your medical bills both before and after seeking care:
Before Seeking Treatment
Get an Estimate
- Ask for a "Good Faith Estimate" of charges before any planned procedure or test.
- Share this with your insurer to understand coverage and out-of-pocket costs.
Discuss Costs with Your Doctor
- Let your doctor know about cost concerns.
- They may suggest less expensive medications or fewer office visits.
Ensure Insurance Information is Accurate
- Double-check that your provider has complete and correct insurance details, especially if you have multiple plans (e.g., employer insurance, spousal coverage, Medicare).
Consider Supplemental Insurance
- Medicare users: Purchase Medigap or Medicare Advantage plans to cover additional costs.
- Sign up for supplemental coverage when first eligible to avoid higher premiums or rejection later.
Look Into Medicare Savings Programs
- Low-income individuals may qualify for programs that cover deductibles, premiums, and copayments.
- Contact your state Medicare office to check eligibility.
After Receiving a Bill
Don’t Pay Immediately
- Verify the bill was sent to your insurance first.
- Wait for the Explanation of Benefits (EOB) to determine your responsibility.
Check for Errors
- Almost 50% of medical bills contain errors.
- Request an itemized bill and review it for duplicate charges or services not received.
Challenge Medical Error Charges
- If a hospital error caused additional care (e.g., infections), dispute those charges.
- Request discounts for the original procedure if errors caused financial hardship.
Inquire About Financial Assistance
- Nonprofit hospitals are legally required to provide financial assistance.
- Some states mandate free or discounted care for low-income patients.
Negotiate the Bill
- Propose an affordable monthly payment plan without interest.
- Offer a lump sum payment in exchange for a reduced total bill.
Seek Help from Patient Advocates
- Contact organizations like the Patient Advocate Foundation (800-532-5272) for free assistance.
- Hire a certified medical billing advocate if needed.
Additional Tips
Avoid Paying with a Credit Card
- Credit card interest can significantly increase the cost.
- Negotiate a payment plan directly with the hospital or provider instead.
Use Available Resources
- Medicare Rights Center: Assistance with Medicare questions (800-333-4114).
- State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP): Help navigating insurance options.
Summing it up
- Preparation is Key: Knowing costs beforehand and verifying insurance details can save you money.
- Be Proactive: Dispute errors and negotiate payments to reduce bills.
- Seek Support: Use financial assistance programs and advocacy organizations for help.
- Credit Score Protection: Avoid using credit cards to pay medical bills and work out plans directly with providers.
Medical expenses are a challenge, but these strategies can help you manage costs and avoid overwhelming debt.
