7 Ways to save on healthcare

To get the most value for your healthcare dollar, follow these money-saving tips.

For specific information about your health plan, log in to your member account.

1. Use doctors and pharmacies in your networks

It's important to understand your plan networks because they affect how much you pay for care and prescription drugs.

Provider network: You’ll pay less when you use doctors, clinics, hospitals and healthcare professionals in your provider network. Always check your network before you seek care.*

Learn about provider networks

Pharmacy network: You can get prescription drugs at a lower cost when you use a pharmacy in your plan network. Always check your pharmacy network before you fill a prescription.

You will pay more, or even the full cost, for healthcare services and prescription drugs you get outside your plan networks.

2. Use your preventive care benefits

Many health plans pay the full cost for important preventive care. These regular exams, screenings and immunizations can save you a lot of money because they can prevent or catch problems early, when they are easier to treat.

Learn more about preventive care

3. Shop for high-value care

Care that costs more may not mean it’s better. And the cheapest care may not always be the best choice. It’s smart to use resources that help you shop and compare cost and quality before you get care.

Learn more about making healthcare choices

4. Choose the right care at the right time

Urgent care, an online doctor visit, or a call to a nurse line could save you a trip to the emergency room. Getting the right kind of care at the right time can also save you time and money.

Learn more about care options

5. Ask for generic drugs

Generic drugs are approved by the FDA and cost less than brand-name versions. They contain the same active ingredients as brand name drugs and often work just as well.

6. Make the most of wellness programs

Many health plans offer programs and discounts to help you quit using tobacco, keep fit and assess your health. These programs can save you money and help improve your health.

See a list of health programs and discounts

7. Take care of yourself

Taking steps toward a healthier lifestyle can help you feel better and lower your healthcare costs. Here are some ways to take charge of your health: 

More about healthcare costs

How you and insurance pay for your healthcare
What is an out-of-pocket maximum?
What is a deductible?
What is coinsurance?
What is a health insurance premium?
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This is general information about how plan benefits work. Review the Summary of Benefits and Coverage and your specific health plan benefit booklet for information about how your plan works.

It’s up to you to always check if your provider is in your health plan network before you receive services. Not all providers are in every network. You may pay more or for all of your healthcare costs if your provider is out of your network or does not have a contract with Blue Cross (this is called a non-participating provider). You can verify if your provider is in your network by calling customer service at the number on the back of your member ID card.