The U.S. government has taken steps to reduce the cost of medical care. However, patients are also using coupons to reduce their medical costs. The cost of healthcare is notoriously high. Learn more about online coupons.
The use of coupons for medical services has been discontinued for several years, but patients are still taking advantage of predatory scams and receiving medically unnecessary treatments.
Without health insurance, some patients can only afford health care through coupons. Promoting a practice and attracting new patients can also be accomplished through coupons.
Patients in need of healthcare can purchase vouchers and discounts from several online coupon companies.
U.S. healthcare is becoming increasingly expensive, as evidenced by coupons. See how patients are reducing medical expenses by using coupons.
Coupons used by patients for healthcare
Coupons for medical services are available through online voucher programs such as Groupon, MDsave, WellRX, and others. Many medical services are covered by coupons, including MRIs, back surgery, and dental cleanings. Coupon companies usually price their deals based on local competition.
Furthermore, the earnings are cut dramatically, sometimes up to halfDespite the massive pay reduction, care providers benefit from all the extra marketing. Coupons may be available for practices and care providers that are unfamiliar to patients.
Care costs can be dramatically reduced with some coupons. At Virtual Imaging Inc.’s Perimeter Center in Atlanta, Georgia, CT scans have been available with coupons since 2009, reducing the total cost to just $26, a 96% savings.
Care providers often offer coupons on their websites in order to remain competitive. In the event that a major competitor is offering coupons for care, a provider may use them in an attempt to avoid losing access to patients. The payments received by many providers are better than none.
The Downfalls of Medical Coupons
The use of some healthcare coupons may be more harmful than beneficial. Patients without insurance or with low income will likely benefit from these discounts. They can, however, steer them toward unnecessary medical care. A patient with back pain might find a coupon for back surgery, but that surgery must be approved by their provider before it is performed. Not coupon companies, but providers should guide patients in choosing the right treatment option.
Coupon users may end up paying a second time for medical services in other situations. By viewing a coupon listing for a local provider’s office, individuals may be able to save money on CT scans compared to hospitals. After their CT scan results indicate that they need surgery, the patient may need to visit a local hospital for treatment. However, the patient might have to pay for another CT scan before the operation, meaning they will end up spending twice as much.
Fraudulent voucher programs and online schemes can also be exploited by patients.