Know why you are going and know what you want!
You can save money and time, by knowing why you are going to the doctor and what you hope to accomplish. You can save money by saving time. Charges for physician visits are not based solely on time spent with a patient, it does factor into the equation. Many physicians note the time they enter a patient’s room and the time they leave, for billing purposes. You can save money by doing the same. Keep track and stay focused.
Much can be accomplished if your goals are clear. Get a notebook and jot down your thoughts. Make a list of what you hope to address. Prioritize your needs and let your doctor know what concerns you most. After your visit, make additional notes regarding your doctor’s comments and plans.
Your doctor is more likely to throw in a “freebie” if you make your requests known up front and stay on task. If you wait until they are about to leave the room, they will groan inwardly and may adjust your bill upward.
Here are some tips:
- If you are having bloodwork and forgot to fast, you may have to return
- Is your knee hurting? Wear shorts or a skirt to hasten the exam.
- Bad toe? Take off your socks and shoes – do you really want to pay the doctor to watch you take them off?
- Need refills? Check your prescriptions before you leave home. Make a list of what you have and what you’ll need for your doctor to review.
- Plan ahead and organize your thoughts
- Check ahead if you need refills
- Know your formulary
- Bring a record of your blood sugar or blood pressure.
- Fill out forms ahead that you need to have completed
- Get a copy of the $4 list from your local pharmacy
- Keep a notebook
- Make a computer file of your medicines and print an updated list for every visit.
- Type out two copies of an organized, detailed description of your problems with room for your doctor’s comments.
Student Health & Wellness 