Tip: Keep a List of Your Prescriptions

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Prescriptions are one of the most expensive parts of your health insurance. Usually, you need to take your medicine daily, or at least on a schedule. And they can be expensive - so regardless of whether your prescriptions are expensive, choosing a health insurance plan that covers prescriptions at all will make that insurance plan a lot more expensive.

There's a solution for that. Be aware of what your prescriptions cost with and without insurance, and compare the prices for those medicines at various pharmacies near you.

Ok, we get it. That's a lot of work and you're a busy person. You don't have time to drive around to 10 pharmacies and ask each pharmacist how much your medicine will cost with and without insurance. Not to mention, the pharmacist might think you're crazy.

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Work with an Agent

You might not be used to shopping for the best health deal, but a licensed health insurance agent is. A good agent will know how to use tools like GoodRx.com. He or she will be able to run a detailed analysis. See how much your prescriptions would cost you if you switch coverages. Together, you could get a picture of what your monthly out-of-pocket costs could be and get a realistic comparison of insurance plans.

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Make a Prescription List

You can help an agent shop for you. Start by creating a list of names, formulations, dosages, and quantity needed per month for all of your medications. We have clients who keep theirs on the fridge at home. Make it easy to get to this list if you collapse and first-responders need such information.

Share that list with your agent - before you purchase health insurance.

If there are changes - and there will be as you age - let your agent know, at least when you speak for your annual review, if not before.

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Save on Out-of-Pocket Expenses

Don't assume that all plans include pharmacy benefits. We see it from time to time with new clients who assumed that - they end up being shocked at the difference in prices and how much more they have to pay. Be aware that your medications are a cost and that they will not always be low.