Spring 2009

Botsford HealthSource Magazine

There are Ways to Save Money on Health Care

If you’re worried about the cost of medical care, you’re not alone. A poll of 3,000 women found that nearly half of them are extremely concerned about rising health care costs. And the more costly medical care becomes, the less likely people may be to carry health insurance or seek care when they need it.

Total national health expenditures rose almost seven percent in 2007, and health care spending is expected to increase at similar levels for the next decade. While there doesn’t seem to be any relief in sight for health care costs, there are steps you can take to ease the burden on your wallet.

Adopt healthy habits. You know what this means: Exercise at least 30 minutes most days; eat low-fat foods and a variety of fruits and vegetables each day; don’t use tobacco; and if you drink alcohol, do so only in moderation. These actions may help you avoid the need for medical care.
Seek preventive care. Preventive services such as annual exams, flu shots, mammograms and blood pressure checks can help prevent disease or lead to early detection. Talk with your doctor about your risks for conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Then follow his or her advice for preventive screenings. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality offers information about preventive services at www.ahrq.gov/clinic/ prevenix.htm.
Ask for less expensive medications. Share your drug formulary with your doctor. A formulary is a list of medications your insurance company will help you pay for. In addition, ask your doctor to prescribe generic drugs— which are less expensive than brand-name drugs—when possible.
Wash your hands. Most colds and flu are spread in droplets from coughs and sneezes. Washing your hands—with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds—can help stop the spread and keep you healthy.

Fight Financial Stress

While you can’t control the stock market, you can control how you react to financial worries. Here’s how to keep money from stressing you out or getting you down:

Put concerns in perspective. Replace doom-and-gloom thoughts (“this is a disaster”) with realistic ones (“this is an issue, so I’ll need to tighten my budget”).
Write down solutions. By putting on paper the practical ways you’ll save, you can focus on specific changes and reduce stress.
Breathe slowly and deeply. Inhale through your nose for four counts. Then breathe out through your mouth for four counts. Repeat five to ten times. This technique helps counter the fast, shallow breathing associated with stress.
Create time to relax. Set aside at least 15 minutes for enjoyment every day. Listen to music, read a magazine or call a friend to chat—whatever helps you unwind. Walk it off. To boost your mood, fit physical activity into every day.
Walking, biking, dancing and even gardening can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.

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Botsford HealthSource Magazine

There are Ways to Save Money on Health Care