As of 2017, the average person in the United States spent $10,739 on healthcare costs. This figure includes the cost of doctor’s appointments, dental care, medications, medical equipment, and treatment. Although having health insurance was once legally required, Americans are no longer penalized if they do not have insurance. Almost 28 million people in the U.S. do not have health insurance.

Even those who have insurance can find themselves spending thousands of dollars for copays, prescriptions, and healthcare costs that aren’t covered, such as dental and optical care. You can manage your healthcare costs and reduce your expenses by employing these strategies.

1. Get Group Insurance

Medi-Share is a Christian healthcare cost-sharing program. Members pay to apply and pay a monthly fee. The money is used to compensate members for their healthcare expenses.

If you’re considering getting a medishare quote, you should also contact Health Quote Gurus for a group insurance quote. Group insurance is not Medi-Share. It is designed for employers to offer health insurance to their employees. The company and the staff members share the cost. Group insurance plans typically cost less than individual healthcare coverage, because there is a higher probability of members paying more in fees than they accrue in healthcare costs. Companies classified as large businesses are legally required to offer a health insurance plan to their employees. In most states, large businesses are defined as companies with 50 or more employees.

2. Cut Prescription Costs

Prescription drugs can a lofty expense for anyone. But, there are steps you can take to make sure you're paying a fair price. Apply for the best rx discount card from USArx. This company negotiates lower prices on prescriptions and passes those savings on to cardholders. USArx can save you up to 75% off the regular cost of medications and is valid at over 60,000 pharmacies in the United States. You can apply online, and you do not need to have health insurance to be eligible to receive this discount card.

You may also be able to reduce your prescription costs by switching to generic medications. Talk to your doctor about other medications that may be more affordable when you’re getting your prescription.

Make sure you take all medications you’re prescribed to treat existing health problems and prevent complications.

3. Use All Benefits

Plans vary, and you may want to talk to a case manager to make sure you’re family with all of the annual benefits of your health insurance plan. Some plans provide routine medical screenings, while others limit some services. For example, if your plan allows you to have an eye test and receive new glasses once every two years, make sure you see your optometrist every two years.

Go for an annual physical exam. Preventative tests can identify potential medical issues early. You can prevent complications and reduce your healthcare costs with early treatment. Case managers can also help you identify healthcare providers covered by your insurance plan, so you do not accrue unnecessary out-of-pocket costs.

4. Maintain Your Health

Outside of traditional health care costs, you should consider investing in your holistic health by making lifestyle changes. For example, try transitioning to a healthy diet. Eating balanced, nutritious meals can prevent serious health issues, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Reduce sodium and fat intake and focus on consuming omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that can lower your risk of cancer and strengthen your immune system.

You may also opt to take a multivitamin to ensure you’re getting all the essential nutrients your body needs to operate optimally.

Adopt an exercise plan. Regular exercise can help reduce stress and prevent obesity. It also stimulates your immune system and strengthens your bones, muscles, and joints, preventing health issues from falling.

5. Invest in a Health Care Savings Account (HSA)

Ask your employer if they offer an HSA. If you invest in an HSA, you will put money from your paychecks into the HSA. This deduction is a pre-tax deduction. The money in your HSA earns interest and can be used to pay healthcare costs, such as copay fees. You are not obligated to withdraw the money from your HSA, and you can also transfer your HSA to your new employer if you switch jobs.

You are not required to pay taxes on HSA money used for eligible medical expenses. Only money withdrawn for expenses that aren’t approved is taxed. Once you retire, living expenses are tax-exempt, which means your HSA can be used to cover those expenses without penalty.