by If you’re sick and missing a rich aunt or uncle, you can call a wealthy YouTuber like Jimmy Donaldson, aka MrBeast.
Don’t miss out
When he paid for 1,000 cataract operations, people around him saw benevolence. Donaldson used the revenue from his 134 million subscribers to change lives. And perhaps he left those he could not support a little enviously.
That can be especially true for the untold number of sick or healthy patients who are swimming in medical debt, or facing necessary — and financially devastating — medical procedures. A 2022 Kaiser Family Foundation study found that more than half of American adults said they took on debt because of medical or dental bills.
That said, there are easier ways to keep health care costs in check without having to track down a rich relative or benevolent beast.
Preventive treatment beats any cure
Regular checks, vaccinations and screenings can detect health problems early and reduce the likelihood of expensive care down the road. Many insurance plans offer free or low-cost preventive care services. Most states have their backs on this, as a strong majority require private insurers to reimburse for telemedicine.
Where insurance doesn’t come into play, flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts will cover alternative procedures – the kind many swear by – like acupuncture or herbal medicine. With the latter, just make sure to get a letter of medical necessity (LMN).
Call telehealth
Telehealth services allow patients to consult healthcare professionals remotely. They became increasingly popular during the pandemic when doctor’s offices and clinic visits were not possible.
But today they are still a practical and cost-effective option, especially for non-emergency care.
Many insurance plans now cover telehealth, so consider this option for routine checkups, consultations, and even some urgent needs.
read more: Boomer’s regrets: Here are the top 5 “big money” purchases you’ll (probably) regret in retirement, and how to prepare for them
Make prescription purchases for your Rx
As prescription costs increase, comparing prices at different pharmacies can provide significant savings over time.
Some pharmaceutical companies will offer introductory prices on medicines, while discount programs and price matching can also help.
Don’t hesitate to speak up when you visit your pharmacy to ensure you get the lowest cost, and see generics as an effective, cost-saving measure.
Do what you should: Negotiate medical bills
While large medical bills can be daunting, providers and collectors will often extend flexibility if you ask. Step up to negotiate or negotiate with insurance companies or care providers, by asking about payment plans or financial assistance programs.
Healthy habits, building bonds
Submit this under preventative care, but more in line with your lifestyle. Study after study concludes that exercise makes a difference in general health, especially walking. A 2021 study that linked exercise routines to Medicare claims that starting regular exercise before or during middle age can save between $824 and $1,874 annually on health care costs after retirement.
Strength training, a balanced diet, meditation and sleep hygiene also have documented positive effects. Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption will improve overall health.
But the one factor that just comes into its own centers on the strength of your human bonds. The Harvard Study of Adult Development, the longest of its kind, has recently established a strong link between deep relationships and well-being.
So if you’re not sure where to start, take a close friend for a long walk and a healthy meal afterwards. Make it a habit to practice these habits and you just might be on your way to roaring health and (we’re sure MrBeast would agree) a beauty in life.
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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is supplied without warranty of any kind.
