Discover - Blog , Proactive HealthcareDiscover - Blog , Proactive Healthcarehttps://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/proactive-healthcareSun, 17 May 2026 23:25:37 -0700http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[Finding Affordable Mental Health Care]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/finding-affordable-mental-health-care

Talk therapy is a hugely beneficial form of mental health care for many. Working with a mental health professional can help you overcome obstacles, learn positive coping strategies, and improve your overall health. However, a common concern is the cost. Finding an affordable therapist may take some time and patience, but you might be surprised to learn just how many ways there are to connect with one. Don’t be discouraged if the first option you find isn’t the right fit, we’ll cover various resources and tips to help you in your search.

Understanding the Costs


Understanding the costs associated with therapy can help you navigate the options and budget. In the U.S., the average therapy session costs between $100 - $200. There are several factors that can influence the cost of a session:


      • Provider Credentials: The type of mental health professional you choose can impact the cost. Psychologists and psychiatrists typically charge higher fees than clinical social workers, counselors, and other mental health professionals.
      • Type of Therapy: Rates for individual, couples, and group therapy tend to vary, with group therapy typically being the lowest cost.
      • Location: Therapy costs can vary based on where you live. Areas with higher living expenses tend to have higher fees for therapy. Therapy costs can also vary based on the setting of the session, in-person or virtual. 

Using health insurance may lower your out-of-pocket costs depending on your plan coverage. Most health insurance plans cover mental health services but not all therapists accept certain insurance plans or insurance at all. If that is the case with a therapist you’ve found,  you will want to find an in-network option if you want to use your insurance coverage for the session(s). Otherwise, some therapists offer a “sliding scale fee” which is a pricing system that offers lower fees to individuals who qualify based on their income.

Exploring Your Options
1. Start with Your Health Insurance Company 

Review your insurance policy to understand what mental health benefits are included and any associated out-of-pocket costs, such as co-payments or deductibles. If you’re unsure about your coverage or have questions, you can contact your health insurance company by calling their number, often found on the back of your health insurance card or on their website.

 If your therapist doesn’t accept your insurance,  you should  ask your insurance company for a list of in-network therapists or complete an online search to find providers who do accept your insurance.

2. Ask Potential Therapists for an Estimate

Before committing to therapy, don't hesitate to reach out to therapists in your area to inquire about their fees. If they accept your insurance, you can request an estimate. If they don’t accept your insurance (or you don’t have insurance) some therapists offer discounts, or a sliding fee scale based on income. You should also be able to obtain information on the fixed cost per session. Many therapists understand the financial constraints that clients face and are willing to work with them to find a suitable payment arrangement. 

3. Look into Your Employee Assistance Program (if your benefits include one)

Many employers offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) as a part of their benefits package. EAP services offer employees and their families with referrals or access to confidential counseling services at no cost or a reduced fee. These programs typically offer short-term counseling, with a limited number of sessions per situation. Contact your EAP provider to learn more about the program options and resources.

4. Look into Telehealth Platforms

Much like EAPs, Telehealth or Telemedicine  options are a common benefit offered by employers, typically through the group health plan. They are well-known for offering virtual care for minor illnesses and symptoms like sore throat and cough, but some also offer mental health counseling at very reasonable prices. 

Online therapy apps and websites are another form of telehealth that is becoming increasingly popular. Like traditional clinics, some accept insurance, and some do not, and the pricing can vary widely from platform to platform. Along with checking their pricing, it is highly recommended to research an online therapy provider’s security practices, accreditations, and licensures before signing up. 

5. Contact a Community Organization

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and Mental Health America (MHA) are nonprofit organizations that serve people nationwide. They offer support and resources for finding mental health services in your area. They can also provide information on local support groups and community clinics if they are available near you. Visit the links below to find out more.
Additional Resources
Mental Health America
NAMI

Finding an affordable therapist isn’t always easy but we hope this article has given you some additional avenues to explore. Remember that investing in your mental health is invaluable, and seeking support is a sign of strength!

]]>Wed, 24 Apr 2024 12:08:45 -0500<![CDATA[The Role We All Play in the Cost of Healthcare]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/role-in-healthcare

In the complex landscape of healthcare economics, the role of consumers is often underestimated. However, consumer behavior plays a significant role in shaping the cost of healthcare over time. 


From the choices we make regarding insurance coverage, to lifestyle habits and healthcare-seeking behavior, we all have a direct impact on the overall cost of healthcare. Understanding this impact is crucial for policymakers, healthcare providers, and individuals alike in efforts to manage and reduce healthcare costs.

Healthcare Utilization

Consumer behavior when seeking healthcare services influences costs. For instance, the choice between visiting a primary care physician, urgent care center, or emergency room for non-emergency conditions can have cost implications. Overutilization of emergency rooms for non-urgent care leads to higher costs for both individuals and the healthcare system as a whole. 

Additionally, consumer demand for unnecessary tests, treatments, and medications can contribute to healthcare cost inflation.


Understanding the importance of evidence-based care and engaging in shared decision-making with healthcare providers can help us make informed choices that are both cost-effective and beneficial to our health.

Health & Lifestyle Choices

Lifestyle choices, such as diet, exercise, and tobacco and alcohol use, have a significant impact on long-term healthcare costs. Unhealthy behaviors contribute to the development of chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, which require ongoing medical care and treatment. 


By adopting healthier lifestyles and engaging in preventive care measures, consumers can potentially reduce the incidence of these costly conditions and lower overall healthcare costs.

Adherence to Preventive Care


Individuals who regularly engage in preventive care, such as screenings, vaccinations, and wellness check-ups, are more likely to detect and address health issues early, potentially reducing the need for costly treatments down the line.

Shopping for Healthcare


Actively shopping for healthcare services, such as comparing prices for procedures or seeking lower-cost alternatives for medications, can help control costs by encouraging price competition among providers.

Healthcare Decision-Making


Consumers who are engaged in their healthcare decision-making process, such as discussing treatment options with their healthcare providers and considering the cost-effectiveness of different options, can help reduce unnecessary spending and cost increases.

We all play a crucial role in shaping the cost of healthcare and insurance through our behaviors, choices, and interactions within the healthcare system. By making informed decisions and adopting healthy lifestyles, we can contribute to reducing healthcare costs and improving overall health outcomes. Achieving these goals requires collaboration among policymakers, healthcare providers, and individuals to create a healthcare system that is sustainable, efficient, and accessible to all.

]]>Wed, 10 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0500<![CDATA[How to Avoid Unexpected Medical Bills]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/how-to-avoid-unexpected-medical-bills
Medical expenses can take a significant toll on your finances, especially when they catch you off guard. To maintain your financial stability and peace of mind, it's crucial to take proactive steps to prevent unexpected medical costs. In this blog, we will discuss various strategies and tips to help you avoid those unexpected medical bills.


1. Understand common health insurance terms
The first step in avoiding unexpected medical bills is to thoroughly understand your health insurance coverage. Review your policy, paying close attention to:

  • Premiums: The amount you pay for your insurance plan.
  • Deductibles: The amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance starts covering costs. The amount a plan participant pays for covered health care services before his or her insurance plan starts to pay.
  • Out of Pocket Maximum: The most a plan participant can be required to pay for covered services in a plan year. The out-of-pocket limit does not include monthly premium amounts or spending for services the plan does not cover. An out-of-pocket limit is also called an "out-of-pocket maximum."
  • Coinsurance: The percentage of costs of a covered health care service the participant pays after having paid his or her deductible.
  • Copay (also known as copayment): A fixed amount the participant pays for covered health care services.
  • In-network providers: Knowing which doctors and hospitals are in-network can save you money. The facilities, providers, and suppliers a health insurer or plan has contracted with to provide health care services. The insured person typically pays a lower price for using services within the network.
  • Out-of-network costs: Understand the higher costs associated with using out-of-network providers. Services received outside an insurer's network. These services typically carry a higher cost to the insured person.
  • Coverage limits: Be aware of annual and lifetime limits on certain treatments or services.



2. Advocate for yourself
Don’t be afraid to have a cost conversation with your provider. It can be intimidating to ask questions during your doctor visit, not only about your personal symptoms but about price.  Most providers now can provide a Good Faith Estimate prior to receiving treatment. We encourage you to ask questions and don’t be afraid to dig deeper before saying yes to the next suggested step. 

Here are some specific examples on when it pays to ask “what’s the cost, or what will be covered?”



During your preventative care visit  – During preventative visits, you can make sure to reiterate any questions or concerns you will be billed as preventive. If you have back pain or bring up an old knee injury it can sometimes result in the Doctor billing as non-preventative. 

After a referral– If your doctor suggests you get an MRI, meet with a certain specialist  or physical therapist, or complete other specialty care, ask your provider what the expected cost is. They can get you in touch with the providers billing department to ensure what you need is covered, or give you an estimate on costs. 

Before a major procedure - Before undergoing any medical procedure or treatment, discuss the potential costs with your healthcare provider. Ask about alternative treatments and whether they are covered by your insurance. If you're facing a non-emergency medical procedure or treatment, contact your insurance company to ensure its covered and to obtain prior authorization if necessary. This step helps you avoid unexpected denials of coverage after the fact.

 When it doubt, ask for a Good Faith Estimate and a Prior Authorization of services.
 

3. Consider an independent practitioner or specialist
You don’t have to use the doctor’s recommendation for a specialist. Oftentimes an independent practitioner like a Physical Therapist or Chiropractor is cheaper going direct versus using the providers choice. 


4. Choose in-network providers
Whenever possible, seek medical care from in-network healthcare providers. In-network providers have pre-negotiated rates with your insurance company, which can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. You can typically find a list of in-network providers on your insurer's website or by calling their customer service.


5. Understand your care options when sick
For non-life-threatening medical issues, consider visiting an urgent care clinic instead of the emergency room. Emergency room visits are often much more expensive, and your insurance may have higher copayments or deductibles for ER visits.


6. Make sure your EOB & bill match before making ANY payments
If you do get a bill its important to match to your Explanation of Benefits (EOB).  


7. Stay Informed about plan changes
Stay informed about changes to your health insurance policy. Policies can change annually, so make sure you understand any updates or modifications that may impact your coverage and costs.

Being an informed patient can help you make cost-effective decisions about your healthcare.

While you can't predict every medical expense, you can take steps to minimize the risk of unexpected costs. Understanding your health insurance, choosing in-network providers, and advocating for yourself are essential steps to safeguard your financial well-being in the face of healthcare costs. 

]]>Thu, 26 Oct 2023 10:48:15 -0500<![CDATA[The Benefits of a Preventive Care Routine]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/the-benefits-of-a-preventive-care-routine

Last Updated: March 23, 2026

We often hear the phrase, "Prevention is better than cure," but how many of us truly internalize this wisdom, especially when it comes to our health? In an era where healthcare is becoming increasingly expensive and complex, preventive care stands as an oasis of proactivity. Let's delve into why scheduling regular preventive care visits is not just good for your health but also for your wallet and peace of mind.


What is Preventive Care?

Preventive care is the cornerstone of modern healthcare. It involves regular check-ups, screenings, and consultations aimed at detecting, preventing, or minimizing disease. Unlike acute care, which treats illnesses once they occur, preventive care aims to reduce the risk of health issues before they become serious.


Why is Preventative Care Important?

Early Detection, Easier Treatment

One of the most compelling reasons for adhering to a preventive care routine is early detection. Diseases like cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure are much easier to manage when caught in their initial stages. Early treatment can lead to better outcomes and may even prevent the disease from advancing to a stage where it would require more invasive treatments.


Cost-Effectiveness

When it comes to healthcare, the financial aspect is often a significant concern. Preventive care is usually more affordable than the cost of treating a full-blown disease. Many health insurance plans offer coverage for preventive care services, making it a financially prudent choice.


Manage any Chronic Conditions

If you are living with a chronic condition like asthma or diabetes, preventive care becomes even more critical. Regular visits to your primary care provider can help manage symptoms, adjust medications, and prevent complications that could lead to hospitalization or surgery.


Improve Overall Health and Wellbeing

Preventive care goes beyond just physical health. It serves as a platform to discuss lifestyle choices, nutrition, and mental well-being. Your healthcare provider can guide you on healthier living choices, including exercise routines, stress management techniques, and dietary plans tailored to your needs.


What to Bring to Your Annual Well Visit 

If you have an upcoming preventive care visit, make sure to bring:

  • Health Insurance ID Card
  • List of current medications
  • Immunization records
  • Family health history
  • Any concerns or changes in your health

Your check-up will usually include a thorough examination, including weight and blood pressure checks, and may include other screenings specific to your age, gender, and risk factors.

Navigating Insurance for Preventive Care

Most insurance plans cover preventive care services, but it’s always best to confirm with your provider. Insurance portals often have dedicated sections that list covered preventive services and in-network providers, ensuring that you're making the most of your coverage.

Scheduling preventive care visits should be a non-negotiable part of your healthcare routine. The benefits, both immediate and long-term, far outweigh the time and effort spent in a doctor's office. Remember, your health is an investment, and preventive care is the best way to secure high returns on this investment. 


Make sure to schedule at least one preventive care visit a year—even if you're feeling perfectly healthy—to stay ahead in the game of life.

]]>Tue, 05 Sep 2023 14:49:40 -0500<![CDATA[Heart Health]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/heart-health

You want to be certain you are doing all you can do to take care of your heart health. Making healthy lifestyle choices and knowing your risk factors are two of the best ways to ensure your heart is well cared for. You may already eat nutritiously or stay active, but how do you know what your risk factors are? This is where your healthcare provider and heart-health screenings can help. 


Preventative Screenings

Preventive screenings related to heart-health include blood pressure, cholesterol, body weight, and for some, blood glucose. Of these, blood pressure is one of the most critical because high blood pressure greatly increases your chance of heart attack or stroke, and often has no signs or symptoms. Starting at age 20, the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends having your blood pressure checked at least once per year at your annual physical exam. Although, your doctor may recommend more frequent screenings if your blood pressure is higher than normal.


Your “lipoprotein profile” or cholesterol as it’s more commonly known, should be tested every 4 to 6 years after age 20. Like blood pressure, your doctor may recommend more frequent screenings based on your risk factors.


For those who are overweight and have at least one additional cardiovascular risk factor, your healthcare provider may ask for a blood glucose or “blood sugar” test. High blood glucose puts you at a greater risk for developing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. When uncontrolled, diabetes can lead to heart disease and stroke.


While it all may sound a little dismaying, having these screenings can have many potential benefits. When you know your risks, you can work with your doctor to make positive changes in your health before serious illness occurs. Moreover, conditions are easier to treat when caught early on. If some of your readings are less than optimal, lifestyle changes and/or medication can often be used to control conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

 

Note: Before visiting the doctor for an annual exam, be sure your chosen physician is in-network according to your health plan. In-network care providers have a contract with your insurance provider to provide care at a set cost. It is typically more expensive to visit a care provider that is out-of-network. 

 RECOMMENDED SCREENINGS FREQUENCY
 Blood Pressure
 Each regular healthcare visit or at least once per year if blood pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg.
 Cholesterol ("fasting lipoprotein profile" to measure total, HDL and LDL cholesterol) Every 4-6 years for normal-risk adults; more often if you have elevated risk for heart disease and stroke.
 Weight/Body Mass Index (BMI) During your regular healthcare visit.
 Waist Circumference As needed to help elevate cardiovascular risk if your BMI is greater than or equal to 25 kg/m2.
 Blood Glucose Test At least every 3 years*.
 Discuss smoking, physical activity, and diet Each regular healthcare visit.

*The American Diabetes Association recommends testing for prediabetes and risk for future diabetes for all people beginning at age 45 years. If tests are normal, it is reasonable to repeat testing at a minimum of 3-year intervals.


Does my Health Insurance Cover Screenings?

Most likely yes —the majority of health insurance plans cover preventive services such as screenings, annual physical exams, and vaccinations. To find out what your plan covers, you can request a Summary of Benefits and Coverage from your insurance provider. This short and easy-to-understand document outlines your health plan’s coverage and is available from all health insurance companies and company-sponsored benefit plans. If you would like assistance understanding or clarifying information in your Summary of Benefits and Coverage, reach out to your company benefits broker for assistance.


Your heart-health and well-being are priceless and thankfully, having a check-up likely is too. 


Living a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle

Supporting a healthy heart and body goes beyond the doctor’s office. What you regularly eat for lunch or snack on has an impact on your heart, as does how active you are throughout the day. Here are some basic guidelines and tips that can help you take care of your heart and feel well for the long-term.


Nutrition: Eating nutritiously doesn't mean giving up all your favorite foods. Learn to make nutritious swaps where you can and find heart-healthy foods you enjoy. A dietary pattern that emphasizes nutrient-rich foods can help you control your weight, cholesterol, and blood pressure. 


Nutrient rich foods include:

  • A variety of fruits and vegetables
  • Whole grains
  • Skinless poultry or fish
  • Nuts
  • Beans (canned or dried)
  • Good-for-you oils such as canola, olive, or sunflower
  • Low-fat dairy products

Another important factor to be mindful of in a heart-healthy diet is sodium intake. Sodium is a necessary mineral for our bodies that is involved in muscle function and sending nerve impulses. However, consuming too much sodium can put extra strain on your heart and blood vessels and lead to high blood pressure for some.


The AHA (American Heart Association) suggests eating no more than 2,300 milligrams (mg) of sodium per day and ideally limiting your daily intake to 1,500 mg per day for most adults. Cutting back can aid in preventing or reducing high blood pressure.


Preparing your own food from fresh or low-sodium ingredients is one of the top ways to reduce your sodium consumption. Often, premade, prepackaged foods contain high amounts of sodium. Read food labels, especially on premade breads, pizzas, soups, sandwiches, and cured meats, as these can be some of the biggest culprits when it comes to high sodium. Opt for the products with the lowest sodium content. 


Physical Activity: Regular physical activity is just as essential as good nutrition when it comes to preventing heart disease and type 2 diabetes. The AHA recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity each week for optimal health. Additionally, they recommend strength training at least twice a week.


Any movement that elevates your heart rate and causes you to breathe heavier than you typically would but still allows you to talk is considered moderate intensity. Examples of moderate-intensity activities include riding a bike, pushing a lawn mower, or taking a brisk walk. Activities such as these improve your cardiovascular fitness.


If you haven’t found exercise enjoyable in the past, look for different ways get active. Don’t force yourself to do exercise you greatly dislike or that makes you feel exhausted. Rather, look for activities you would have fun doing. Dance in your living room, go rollerblading, take up gardening, or find a friend to walk with. If you’re just starting to get active, start out slow. Reducing your sitting time or doing light activity has health benefits too and can be a great place to start if your fitness level is low.

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Preventive Care

Prevention is not only about making sure an ailment doesn’t occur. It is also about early detection, which is often a key ingredient to favorable outcomes. Despite knowing these benefits, today’s complex healthcare system can leave some of us wondering or even worrying, "Will my preventive visit result in a surprise bill in the mail that I cannot afford?"

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]]>Mon, 14 Feb 2022 10:18:33 -0600<![CDATA[Preparing For Your Well Visit]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/preparing-for-your-well-visit
Your annual well visit (also referred to as an annual physical, checkup, or exam) is covered at 100% by your health insurance provider. Seeing your doctor each year is a crucial piece of an effective preventive care routine.


Choose Your Primary Care Provider
It is important to choose a doctor you trust who is in your plan's network. Being in-network refers to providers or health care facilities that are part of a health plan's network with which it has negotiated discounted rates on their services. Seeing the same doctor regularly ensures your care will be consistent. A primary care provider could be a Family Practice or General Practice Doctor, Geriatrician, Internist, Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant, Gynecologist, or Pediatrician.

Preparing For Your Visit: What to Bring
  • Your Insurance ID Card
  • A list of any medications you are taking
  • Concerns you have about your current and future health
  • Questions regarding your symptoms, treatments, or medication side effects
  • Your family health history

What to Expect
Your well visit will likely start with a questionnaire assessing your health risk. You will answer questions about your current health, family history, past illnesses and surgeries, chronic conditions, lifestyle habits, etc. Your doctor will then listen to your heart and lungs, check your eyes, ears, throat, skin, and abdomen. In addition, your doctor may conduct covered screenings specific to your age and gender such as a cholesterol test, colon cancer screening, pap test or breast exam.

If you are wondering "Will my preventive visit result in a surprise bill in the mail that I cannot afford?", consider this quick read >> on the difference between preventive services and diagnostic services. 

Concluding Your Well Visit
Based on your questionnaire answers and exam findings, your doctor may recommend changes to your diet or exercise routine or possibly prescribe medications. If concerns arise during your exam, your doctor may order laboratory services or diagnostic services that may not be covered under your insurance plan.

At the conclusion of your annual well visit, be sure to ask your doctor any questions you may have about your exam findings, prescribed treatment or medication, or what steps you need to take to schedule any recommended diagnostic or laboratory services.
]]>Fri, 28 Jan 2022 11:19:11 -0600<![CDATA[5 Proactive Healthcare Tips]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/5-proactive-healthcare-tips

We asked a Nurse Practitioner to help us create a list of achievable healthy habits that consider the whole health picture: mind and body. For any individual seeking a healthier, happier lifestyle, here are 5 proactive healthcare tips to point you in the right direction.

1. Go for More Walks.

If you are not in the habit of frequent walks, start small! Tomorrow, get up and walk for 15 minutes. Gradually increase the number of days you walk and the length of your walks. To create some motivation in your walking endeavors, track your steps using a smart device such as a Fitbit or Apple watch, or even your smart phone. 


An accountability partner is also a great way to stay motivated. Ask an office mate to commit to walking with you during the day, or a family member or pet to walk early in the morning or after work hours. 

2. Eat Your Fruits & Vegetables.

A diet including fruits and vegetables is so important for vitamin intake. being heart healthy and maintaining an ideal weight. It is recommended to include about 5 servings of fruit and vegetables into your diet each day. Think of one serving as about the size of your closed fist. You can increase your fruit and vegetable intake by making delicious smoothies, trying some new healthy recipes, or committing to fruit and vegetables as your snacks throughout the day and sides during meals.                        

3. Drink More Water.

There are countless health benefits to proper water intake. These include, but are not limited to, increased energy, brain function, gut health, and weight control. What is proper water intake? The current standard is 8 glasses a day, but everyone is different! Listen to your body, and drink more if you feel you need it. It takes approximately 14 days of proper hydration to feel the benefits, so keep it up!

4. Be Mindful of Your Mental Health.

If you find yourself struggling in any facet of life, do not hesitate to find help. Counselors, crisis hotlines, and telehealth options are always available if you need assistance. 


Telehealth services rapidly increased in popularity in 2020, and conveniently include counseling and mental health services. Telehealth platforms operate like video call platforms many of us are comfortable using today. This service is user-friendly, often less costly than a regular visit to the doctor's office, and allows you or your dependents, such as your children, to see a professional from the comfort of your own home.


Talk to your Human Resources department to learn what Telehealth options are available to you.

5. Schedule Your Annual Physical.

An annual visit with your preferred, in-network physician is covered at 100% through your company-sponsored insurance plan. Aside from this routine, preventative care, meeting with your physician once a year helps establish a relationship and trust for if a more pressing health issue arises.


Hesitant to schedule your annual physical? Many worry if their simple preventative visit will result in a surprise bill in the mail. To reduce this worry, here is a quick read about the difference between preventative services and diagnostic services, and some steps you can take to ensure your intended visit is covered under your plan.

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]]>Fri, 03 Dec 2021 12:17:17 -0600<![CDATA[Laboratory Services]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/laboratory-services

Laboratory services (Labs) are a healthcare offering which provide a snapshot of your current health and are typically performed annually or semi-annually. The importance of labs lies in their creating awareness for yourself and your doctor of your health status and progression.

 

Much like preventive care services, participating in lab work can catch illness or disease in its early stages. Labs can monitor your body’s response to treatments, thus preventing late detection and the medical bills that come with such treatments.


What Happens When a Patient is Recommended to Receive Lab Work?

A typical lab experience for a patient includes a sample collection; whether that sample is blood being drawn by a needle or urine being collected in a cup. The sample is sent to a lab where it is tested according to the doctor’s specifications. Results are produced and reported from these tests to the doctor who will then discuss the patients results as well as next steps to sustain or improve health. 

Who Needs Laboratory services?

Individuals with a family history of chronic conditions {or} who are experiencing symptoms should inquire with their doctor for laboratory services. Such an inquiry can be made during your annual physical/wellness exam. When seeing a new doctor, have any recent lab work sent over. Keeping your lab history up-to-date will allow the comparing of lab tests and results over time and determine if new testing is needed.

 

Note: Before visiting the doctor for an annual exam, be sure your chosen physician is in-network according to your health plan. In-network care providers have a contract with your insurance provider to provide care at a set cost. It is typically more expensive to visit a care provider that is out-of-network. 

Are Laboratory Services (Labs) Covered by My Health Insurance?

Most health plans are required to offer laboratory services coverage. Lab services coverage means that your health plan will cover the routine tests your doctor orders. Typical lab services covered under a health plan include:

 

  • X-rays and diagnostic testing
  • CT scans and MRI’s
  • Blood and fluid tests
  • Biopsies
  • Pathology
  • Pregnancy tests


Note: Check with your insurance carrier to make sure the lab your tests are being sent to is in-network. It is important to know your benefits and what is covered by your health plan before scheduling an appointment by calling your benefits broker or insurance carrier to confirm.

What Happens After Lab Work Has Been Completed?

Once your lab work has been completed and results are reported to the doctor, the doctor will meet with you to discuss the results. Meeting with your doctor to review the results can be done in the doctor’s office or through a telehealth appointment.  It is important that you know what your numbers and overall results mean. Take your time when meeting with your doctor and feel free to ask questions. Even if your results come back ‘normal’, it is important to understand your health and obtain guidance and what you should do based on your results to maintain these ‘normal’ numbers.


What Questions Should I Ask My Doctor to Better Understand My Lab Results?

  • What do the numbers reported from my lab results mean for my overall health?
  • Are there any actionable items for me to take away from these test results?
  • Based on my lab results, what do you predict for my health in the long-term?
  • Are there any medications I will need to start taking, and is there a generic version available?
  • What are some lifestyle and diet changes I can make to improve my health?


Keep a Journal of Family Medical History and Symptoms.

Upon experiencing new or worsening symptoms, keep a medical journal or calendar of your symptoms until you are able to see your doctor. Doing so can help your doctor determine the type of laboratory services you may need. It is also best practice to write down your family history of disease and illness. A family history should Include which relative(s) and at what age the illness occurred. These details could help you qualify for laboratory services an otherwise unaffected patient wouldn’t be qualified for.

]]>Mon, 25 Oct 2021 14:50:09 -0500<![CDATA[Preventive Care]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/preventive-care

Last Updated: March 20, 2026

Many of us are familiar with the old adage, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure", and we've heard about the many benefits of preventive care. A recent Kaiser Health Tracking Poll reported that 92% of Americans believe in the importance of an annual physical. That's encouraging—but why, according to the same survey, are only 62% of Americans actually following through with preventive care? 


Prevention isn't just about avoiding illness; it's also about early detection, which is often a key factor in successful treatment and better long-term outcomes. Despite knowing this, today’s complex healthcare system can leave many people uncertain or even anxious, wondering: 


 "Will my preventive visit result in a surprise medical bill I can't afford?"


This fear is valid and often stems from confusion between two billing categories used to classify your doctor's visit: preventive and diagnostic.​

What are Preventive Services?


Preventive services are routine healthcare measures designed to detect and prevent illness before symptoms arise. These include annual check-ups, screenings, and immunizations. 


A service is typically considered preventive if:


  • You have no current or past symptoms or diagnoses related to the reason for the visit.
  • You fall within the recommended age, gender, or risk category for the service (as defined by guidelines from organizations such as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force).

When billed correctly under a preventive code, most insurance plans must cover these services at no cost to you—no copay, deductible, or coinsurance. 

What are Diagnostic Services?​


Diagnostic services are intended to identify or monitor a specific health concern. These visits may include tests, screenings, or evaluations used to diagnose a condition based on your symptoms, medical history, or other concerns raised during your visit.

When a Preventive Visit Becomes Diagnostic


Here's where it gets tricky: if a concern is identified during a preventive exam, your visit may shift—partially or fully—to diagnostic. 


For example:

You schedule a routine cholestoral screening. But during the visit, you mention chest pain you've experienced. Your provider may order additional testing to rule out a heart condition. The visit is now being used to evaluate a possible diagnosis, so it may be reclassified as diagnostic, which could result in out-of-pocket costs.


While this can be frustrating, remember early detection saves lives, and the long-term benefit far outweighs the cost of missing a critical diagnosis.

How to Avoid Surprise Medical Bills


To minimize billing surprises:


  1. Call your insurance carrier before your visit to confirm that your screening, immunization, or check-up qualifies as preventive under your specific plan.
  2. Ask your healthcare provider how the visit will be coded, especially if you plan to discuss new symptoms or health concerns.
  3. Clarify with your provider’s billing office what services are considered preventive and which may be billed as diagnostic.
  4. Review your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) after the visit to verify the billing aligns with your expectations.

Most preventive services are covered in full—but only if they are billed correctly and meet specific criteria. When in doubt, be proactive. A quick phone call to your insurance company or provider’s billing office can give you peace of mind and help you avoid unexpected charges.

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