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Step 1
To save money on medical costs, always buy the generic brand of medicines. As long as the medicines do the same thing, and contain the same ingredients, buying the generic brand of medicine will save you a significant amount of money. Check with your doctor to make sure that the cheaper medicines are congruent with the more expensive counterpart.
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Step 2
Whenever possible, call you doctor (rather than paying for a visit to the office) to ask for a specific referral to the kind of health care professional that you need. For example, if you had a specific health concern such as a stomach problem or skin issue, ask for a direct referral to a gastrointestinal doctor or dermatologist. This can save you at least $100 on medical expenses by cutting out that usually useless referral appointment.
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Step 3
Visit a walk-in medical clinic rather than your primary doctor, or the ER, if the medical condition is one that is not a pressing emergency. This can especially save on medical costs if you are only experiencing a temporary condition (chronic issues should be addressed with a primary physician).
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Step 4
Another way to save on medical expenses and health care costs is to take an honest look at your life habits. Are you taking a slew of prescription medications for ailments and conditions that you could possibly treat on your own? For example, start eating healthily, and pick up an exercise program-you are likely to find that your need for cholesterol and blood pressure medicine dissipates.
