It’s no secret the U.S. healthcare system is incredibly expensive. According to Investopedia, long before the COVID-19 crisis the U.S. led other industrialized nations in high healthcare spending. The average American incurs approximately $10,345 in medical expenses every year.
Many Americans feel stressed about what might happen financially should they suffer from a medical emergency. Even 51% of assisted living recipients live in their own homes to save money.
While we can’t change the prices of certain medical treatments and products, we can strategize to find ways to save money on the medical care we need. Here are a few low-cost strategies you can use to improve your health and to lower medical costs.
Avoid the dietary supplements
If you take a look at the fine print on your dietary and herbal supplements, you’ll notice a warning to consult with your doctor before you use them. This is because you can actually do more harm than good to your body by using dietary supplements when you don’t need them.
The only reason why you ought to be taking dietary or herbal supplements is if your diet doesn’t allow you to obtain those vitamins and nutrients naturally. For instance, someone who is allergic to citrus fruits may have a vitamin C deficiency. That said, unless your doctor has specifically prescribed a medication for your or recommended certain supplements, leave the supplements on the shelf at the store.
Use your free annual check-ups
Take a look at what your medical insurance plan actually covers. If you’re able to get free annual checkups and wellness visits, make sure you take advantage of them. A regular checkup is the easiest way to get an early diagnosis of a medical problem. You want to treat medical issues early on when they’re not as serious rather than later when they’ve turned into a medical crisis.
Take advantage of low-cost or free health clinics
On average, about 19% of Americans have visited a retail medical clinic in the last year. Consider looking into low-cost or free health clinics available in your area where doctors and registered nurses provide diagnoses and assistance with ailments.
Don’t let your preconceptions keep you from receiving medical care, either. Many of these clinics are well-maintained and well-staffed so you can receive treatment for minor issues without worrying about the quality of your care.
Take advantage of free dental cleanings
Not only do certain areas offer free or low-cost health clinics, but many dental clinics also offer free dental cleanings at certain times of the year. Dental care may be separate from regular healthcare on paper, but your dental health plays a critical part in your overall wellness.
Studies suggest that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with gum disease could play a role in the development of certain diseases. However, despite the importance of dental health, about 40% of children have cavities by the time they reach kindergarten and 91% of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 have some form of tooth decay.
To support your overall health, make sure that you’re taking care of your teeth and taking advantage of the free or low-cost dental care offered by quality clinics in your area.
While you may not have control over the cost of certain medications or procedures, you do have control over taking preventative measures to protect your health and wellbeing. By being proactive with your health and taking advantage of the free or low-cost medical care options available to you, you can be strategic in lowering your annual medical costs.
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