With the costs of healthcare rising under Obamacare, consumers need to keep a few things in mind when navigating the complexities of the healthcare system.
Robin Gelburd, president of FAIR Health, a national, independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing transparency to healthcare costs and health insurance, provides five key things for consumers to keep in mind when considering healthcare plans.
1.) Know if your healthcare provider is in or out-of-network. Gelburd says that it is crucial to remember that: “Out-of-network doctors such as radiologists and anesthesiologists may be involved in your care even if your hospital is in network.” Because of this, Gelburd says consumers should be sure to ask before an operation whether all doctors caring for you throughout your treatment plan are in-network.
2.) If you choose to venture outside of your network, you must take into account that out-of-pocket costs will rise. “You will almost always pay more than you would in network,” Gelburd explains.
3.) If you are slapped with an out-of-pocket bill, do not immediately panic. Consumers should first seek to “determine whether your state laws protect consumers and limit your responsibility to the in-network amount,” Gelburd says.
4.) Out-of-pocket fees may not be set in stone. You can try to gain a point of negotiation by comparing providers’ fees with the typical local charges for specific procedures.
5.) Learn the terminology and buzz words used in the healthcare marketplace. “Familiarize yourself with the key terms and principles of health insurance so that you can be a better advocate for yourself as you navigate the healthcare system,” Gelburd concludes.
Costs of healthcare in America are skyrocketing in every major area, including medical visits, procedures, and insurance coverage. Obamacare is in the midst of a death spiral: 17 co-ops have failed, the Tennessee Health Commissioner says healthcare exchanges in the state are “very near collapse,” insurance companies in North Carolina have become a “financial sinkhole,” and few health experts have positive things to say about the future of the landmark legislation. (RELATED: Obamacare ‘Very Near Collapse,’ In Tennesee, Says Insurance Regulator)
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