Saving health care dollars while receiving quality primary care

It is that wonderful time of the year when we all have to figure out how we are going to afford health care for ourselves and our families. If you are feeling overwhelmed with all the various policies that are available and trying to understand what all they cover, then you are not alone. 

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has increased confusion in an already complex and significantly regulated system. 

Many of us shop for things, whether it be a car, house, cell phone, or even groceries, largely based on price. Unfortunately, our savings from our wallets initially may cost us more in the future if we shop mainly by focusing on the price alone. The cheap sweater you bought may last a few days and then become useless. The avoidance of the engine light or a delay in getting this fixed may cost us twice the initial amount later had we addressed the issue when the light first came on.
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Unfortunately, we give our cars, clothes, beauty/spa treatments, homes, or entertainment desires more attention than our own health. The realization of this neglect only becomes known when we become ill or injure ourselves. 

Therefore, just like anything else, there is tremendous value in prevention and education. One thing I hear a lot is, "I am very healthy and never see a doctor." Is that a good thing? Should we see a doctor only when we are sick and vulnerable? What about seeing the doctor to discuss life's stress, maybe you are traveling and need to learn about important vaccines, learn about any public health concerns, prevent future illness?  How about losing weight? Do you really need that supplement and if so is it safe? Isn't it more costly to go to an urgent care for every minor health issue than going to a doctor who knows you and can see you that day or next day? Finally, do you really need a specialist following your chronic condition? 

We have new testing modalities that enable us to prevent heart attack or stroke in those who do not have the traditional risk factors, like smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. 

Here is a quick chart on how our patients save if you just look at the numbers. These numbers make the following assumptions:

*Single without any dependents
*Male
*Minimum use of health care (healthcare.gov estimates) 
*Cheapest plans are selected for this comparison
*Average income of $75,000
*No primary care visit costs as some insurances charge $25-50 for each visit
*No specialist vist costs

So, if you are a couple, go to a primary care doctor currently or urgent care for your needs, have dependents, you are female, or make more money, the cost is significantly more. 

Remember 2016 Annual HSA Limits per IRS:
Self-only coverage = $3,350
Family coverage = $6,750

What about Medicare you ask? Well, Medicare patients not only save money, but have a physician who can be a true quarterback for your health care. Coordinating with specialists, home care services, preventing falls, making house calls or assisted living/independent living visits are a tremendous value. 

This probably goes without saying, but these numbers are estimates. There are so many factors that can affect your final costs. Certainly, if you end up needing surgery or need medications, then the cost will be higher. This is simply illustrated to give you a general idea at the most basic level.

​I hope this blog really clears the air a little in how insurance works with our practice. Remember, at Health Suite, you can pick LiveActive Primary Care as your primary care service or KC Family Doc. Check us out or meet us for a free consultation today! 

To your health, 
- Dr. Ahmed 
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