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Shop around. Make a list of the benefits you need and check at least three companies to compare costs.
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Think ahead. The best time to buy low-cost insurance is when you're young and healthy. If you have an accident or your health deteriorates, you may find that obtaining coverage is difficult or extremely expensive.
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Check to see if you qualify for group insurance as a member of a professional association. It may save you a lot of money over buying an individual policy.
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Increase your deductible. If you have enough cash on hand to pay for unexpected emergencies, you can save money by taking a higher deductible.
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Consider an HMO, PPO or POS. They are frequently less expensive than traditional plans.
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Don't overinsure yourself. Separate policies for hospital stays or accidents often have high premiums in comparison to the benefits they offer and may duplicate existing coverage.
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Coordinate coverages. If you and your spouse both work and get health care benefits, compare plans and choose the best parts from each.
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Find out about any tax allowances you may be eligible for. If your out-of-pocket medical costs (those not covered by insurance) exceed a certain percentage of your adjusted gross income, you may be entitled to a deduction on your federal income tax return.
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Take advantage of your company's flexible spending account (FSA). Some employers offer FSAs which allow you to set aside pretax dollars through payroll deduction to pay eligible medical expenses. Set aside only funds you know you will use, since you lose any money that you don't spend by the end of the year.
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Stay Healthy. Taking good care of yourself can be the best health care cost-control program.
