Avoid Extra Costs at Your Next Preventative Screening

"I THOUGHT PREVENTATIVE CARE WAS COVERED AT 100%.  WHY DID I GET A BILL?

If you received a bill after a preventative screening, three things could have happened:

YOU DIDN'T SEE AN IN-NETWORK PROVIDER

As a Blue Cross Blue Shield member, you can locate an in-network provider by using the Find A Doctor tool.

YOU TALKED ABOUT A HEALTH ISSUE THAT ISN'T CONSIDERED PREVENTATIVE

The doctor or you may have asked additional questions that lead to additional testing.  What's included in the benefit?  Check out the BCBS Summary of Preventative Care resource.

YOU RECEIVED A SERVICE THAT WASN'T CONSIDERED PREVENTATIVE

Learn what services, what age and how often you should be receiving screenings here.  

THESE TIPS WILL HELP AVOID EXTRA COSTS DURING PREVENTATIVE VISITS

BE CLEAR WHEN SCHEDULING

Ensure the provider know that you are scheduling a preventative care visit, which is covered at 100% by your plan.

ADVOCATE FOR TRANSPARENCY

Ask if any tests or treatments done during your appointment might not be considered preventative care.

DON'T GET OFF TRACK

Ask if talking about other health problems that are not considered preventative care during your appointment will lead to extra costs.  If so, schedule a follow-up visit.

KNOW IT DOESN'T END AT THIS DOCTOR'S OFFICE

Ask if lab work can be sent to a Blue Cross NC in-network lab to lower your costs.

Edited from Tips to Avoid Extra Costs at Your Next Preventative Screening by Jordan Nichols, Certified Worksite Wellness Specialist and Client Wellness Program Manager for Blue Cross NC.