Medical costs just keep rising, and no real relief is in sight. So, like with so many other things, we need to save every dollar we can.

By taking charge of your health expenses, you can fight to cut costs and keep more money in your pocket. It isn't surprising that people are trying stay healthy with lifestyle changes; hoping to lower health insurance and other costs.

Here's some ideas for lowering medical expenses and staying healthy. Sometimes little things make a big difference!

• Stop smoking. Smokers tend to get sick more often and may pay a higher premium on insurance.
• Check those bills! Everyone makes mistakes sometimes - maybe even your doctor or hospital. Check your bill to make sure that it's accurate. Be sure your insurance coverage is applied correctly.
• Pay up front, in cash. If you shoulder your own medical bill, paying in advance of treatment can get you a 10% discount.
• Use free services whenever you can. Most communities have clinics that may offer free health screenings as part of their services to the community. Local clinics and hospitals often provide a variety of these, including blood pressure, cholesterol and even mammograms. They may be advertised on your local radio station or local newspaper.
• Try negotiating a discount with your health care provider. We don't normally think of getting discounts when we go to the doctor. However, it doesn't hurt to ask, whether it is your doctor, your hospital or your pharmacy. It helps if before you do this, you research what other health-care providers are charging. You can also go for the tried and true option of asking for a discount if you pay cash. Many professionals will at least consider this, given that it ensures them that their fee is paid.
• Follow the rules. Read the fine print on your plan to find out your insurer's requirements for referrals and pre-certification.

• Know what's covered. For non-emergency care, it's smart to call your insurer beforehand to find out whether there will be any problems down the road. Although insurers won't usually make coverage decisions over the phone, get the name of the person you talk to, and follow up your conversation with a letter that explains your understanding that your insurance will pay for your treatment.
• Ask for a deal. Call your insurer and ask about the rates it pays physicians in your area. Then ask your doctor if he'll accept a similar amount.
• Contribute to a flexible spending account with your employer. This is a great way to save money on your health care! Your employer can set a flexible spending account up where you can put pre-tax dollars. It reduces your income tax up-front and these dollars are then put aside only for medical expenses. You can be reimbursed for prescription drugs, dental care and co-payments. Basically, anything that you pay out of pocket.

• Ask for samples. Your doctor may be able to supply you with several weeks' worth of medication at no charge.
• Get plenty of exercise and activity. The better condition and tone your body is in, the less likely you are to get sick or have weight related health issues. It is very important to get exercise to keep your body happy and healthy, and prevent your funds from going to unneeded and undesired medical treatments. You don't need to go to a gym or buy lots of exercise equipment, just a simple and quick home fitness program will work well.
• Prevent rather than treat. Prevention really is the best cure! One of the most effective ways to keep your costs of health care down is to take up and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

• Get rid of FIBROMYALGIA PAIN for good!
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