Because higher premiums follow increasing demand for services, we continue to address the issue of utilization so that our members make good choices when seeking care. When it comes to reducing health care costs, the primary responsibility of consumers is to take charge of their health and take care of themselves. They need to communicate with their providers, use appropriate preventive services, and get regular checkups as recommended for their age and physical condition. A big factor in cost one controlled by consumers is how they access health care and how they interact with doctors in determining the best treatment. For example, a typical office visit costs less than a visit to urgent care or an emergency room visit.
Consumers can reduce the cost of their prescriptions by asking for a generic equivalent.
Again, consumers should consult with care providers to help them make cost-effective choices. And, of course, a healthy lifestyle goes a long way toward reducing the need for expensive care and services. Providers Health care providers need to be accountable in determining the appropriate care for consumers. Asking the right questions about individual care can be an important step in providing answers for the health care industry in general. With regard to cost, providers need to seek more collaborative ways of delivering quality care at less cost.