As an increasing number of Americans are either uninsured or underinsured, medical costs are going up as the cost is split between fewer insured people. If you’re paying out of pocket or have inadequate insurance, you’re likely looking to reduce healthcare costs however you can. With some planning and a few minor life adjustments, you’ll be able to reduce your spending before you end up underwater from the costs.
Here are four ways you could end up reducing costs.
1. Change Your Diet
One of the biggest hurdles to being healthy is your diet. If you’re not eating right, you aren’t giving your body the fuel it needs to succeed.
First, you probably need to be drinking more water. Eight glasses a day isn’t the maximum, but the minimum. And when you feel like snacking, have a glass of water first and then see if you’re still hungry.
Next, eliminate all processed sugars from your diet. Any sugars should come from whole fruits, honey, or what’s naturally in the flavor of any food. Get rid of cereals and unnecessary junk food.
That stuff is hard for your body to process.
2. Get More Exercise
You need to work in 20 minutes of physical activity every single day. If you’re not getting any exercise, you’re going to be at as high of a risk of illness as a regular smoker.
If you’re not getting exercise, you’re not working off any of the food you’re eating throughout the day. And if you’re not getting the blood flowing to every part of your body, you’re going to be at risk for circulation issues.
3. Switch To Generics
If you’re still buying name brand medications, it’s time to stop. If you ask 90% of pharmacists, they’ll tell you that they stock their own medicine cabinets with generics.
Generics need to pass the same rigorous testing that name brand FDA approved medicine does. If your local pharmacy produces and packages their own aspirin for half the price of a name brand, you should buy it. It’s going to be up to the same standard and save you money.
4. Get On Your Partner’s Plan
If you’re struggling to pay your health insurance and you’re married or in a domestic partnership, you should quit paying for your health insurance on your own and double up with your partner. When you’re on a shared plan, you can save a lot of money.
Depending on who your partner works for or their financial situation, getting a shared plan could save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars each year. If you’ve been putting off getting married, this might be all the more reason to get hitched.
If you’re in the midst of a health issue right now, look into a medical claim clearinghouse before giving up on your current insurance plan.
You Can Reduce Healthcare Costs In Simple Ways
If you’re looking to reduce healthcare costs, you don’t need to find complicated ways to save money. You can make a few adjustments here and there to set yourself up for a healthier life and a better quality of life throughout your remaining years.
If you’re improving your life, check out our guide for a totally holistic approach.