Until a few years ago, healthcare was the biggest personal drain on finances in the majority of the first-world countries. However, this trend is slowly becoming apparent in Pakistan as well. More and more people are suffering from chronic diseases that require constant and expensive care, like Hepatitis, Cancer, Diabetes, and Heart diseases. When combined with the rising costs of healthcare services, lack of interest in health insurance, and prescription drugs, these conditions can herald a new age of excessive medical expenses. However, the good news is that there are ways to keep your medical expenses in check.
1. Get drugs online from authentic vendors
You can find your prescription or non-prescription drugs online at well-known vendors, like emeds, at reduced rates. Online vendors usually deliver right at home with lesser fuss and greater care than other providers. In addition, they frequently offer great packages and discounts that will lower the costs for your healthcare but reduce none of the effectiveness.
2. Get health insurance
There is a worrying lack of interest in health insurance among average Pakistanis. Many people think this is a fraud scheme meant to swindle money. Moreover, many clerics also advise their listeners about the evils of insurance. Please remember that health insurance is only meant to provide you financial protection in cases of medical emergencies. Health insurance ensures a cashless treatment across a network of hospitals in addition to giving discounts.
3. Research healthcare service costs online
The rising costs of healthcare may make it challenging to avail of required services. However, it also invites competition in the market. Newer medical services advertise their amenities and rates every other day. They offer discounts, special packages, and better care to entice customers. Since the internet has become the go-to advertisement tool, you can effortlessly search for such options online. The better informed you are, the better decision you will make selecting an appropriate care provider.
4. Inquire about the necessity of a procedure or a test
Nowadays, many physicians make it a habit to propose a ridiculous number of lab tests and diagnostics. Ask your doctor if the tests or procedures are truly necessary.
5. Negotiate the price and the payment plan
It may seem a little strange, but usually, medical procedures do not have fixed costs, and you may gain some discounts if you negotiate right. If multiple providers offer a procedure or service in your area, you can get even more competitive prices. Moreover, if you are not in a position to afford a necessary procedure, you can ask for a payment plan. Work with your care billing office to make more manageable and smaller payments over an extended period.
6. Use generic prescriptions
Nowadays, consumers are constantly bombarded with ad campaigns that promote a particular brand or treatment, making it seem like they are the only reasonable choice. However, generic medicines are just as effective as prominent brands and also cost significantly less.
7. Inquire about Over-the-Counter alternative medicines
Over-the-counter drugs usually cost less than their prescription counterparts. Your doctor or a pharmacist may let you know if any alternative OTC drug can help treat your ailment for lesser money.
8. Watch for possible billing errors
Make sure to check your medical bills in detail before paying. Some care providers or hospitals may charge you more than you owe. Insist on transparent medical billing.
9. Take advantage of government-sponsored services
Government-sponsored hospitals and emergency rooms often cost less than their privately-owned counterparts. Moreover, in the majority of the government hospitals they offer special discount plans for the poor. Make sure to avail all such offers to the maximum, and you will see a definite decrease in your medical costs.
10. Prevention is the best cure
Exercise and certain lifestyle changes can prevent you from getting sick in the first place. Introducing such changes in your life will not only help you live longer and healthier but also significantly reduce your potential medical costs;
- Exercise every day
- Eat nourishing food
- Reduce intake of processed foods, carbonated drinks, and sugary snacks
- Reduce stress triggers
- Create manageable goals in your life
- Spend time with your friends and family
- Get the appropriate amount of rest every night
- Reduce drugs or alcohol consumption
- Quit smoking
- Engage in healthy activities, like gardening or hiking
Last word
The rising costs of healthcare do not mean you need to be deprived of quality medicine. There are various options for you to explore to help reduce the costs without lowering the quality of care. Better medical services are becoming more common everywhere in Pakistan by the day. This means the competitiveness between care providers is also rising, making it harder for them to corner the market. You can gain better healthcare that cost less with better information. Lastly, by introducing specific changes in your lifestyle, you can ensure no high-cost illnesses manifest in the first place.