Topic Overview

Each part of your treatment may have a cost. For example, if you have surgery, in addition to the cost of the surgery itself you may have separate charges for things like anesthesia and the time you spend at the hospital after the surgery.

Doctors aren't likely to know how much a procedure or course of treatment will cost on your insurance plan. But they can usually direct you to the people who can get the information, such as:

• A staff person in their office.
• The hospital billing department.

Ask your doctor about any hidden costs involved in the procedure or treatment (follow-up visits, anesthesiologist fees).

• Is there anything you can do to reduce the cost?
• Are there any less expensive options?

Review your health plan:

• Will your medical insurance cover the cost of treatment?
• Do you need a second opinion or preapproval before this treatment will be covered?