It’s a dilemma. Rising healthcare costs, coupled with the increase in popularity of CDHPs (Consumer Driven Health Plans — also known as High Deductible Plans) put consumers in the decision seat on which tests they will undergo. With annual deductibles in the neighborhood of $1,500 for an individual and $3,000 for a family, more and more people are weighing their options and considering skipping tests and other recommended medical services to save money.
Let’s face it, in a tough economy, when pocketbooks aren’t flush with extra cash, many people are opting out of tests and treatments in favor of paying those bills that keep piling up.
But when does skipping a test actually become a threat to your health and, ultimately, your finances?
Consider sleep. We all count on, need, and look forward to it on a nightly basis. Lack of quality sleep due to work stressors, over-filled schedules, or other health conditions has become a “badge of honor” for some people. But in reality, sleep deprivation and insomnia are at the core of an unhealthy America. Lack of quality, regular sleep is a major contributing factor to the rising rates of obesity, Type II diabetes, high blood pressure, and congestive heart failure.
Letting sleep disorders go untreated dominoes into other health-related issues that can’t be ignored, and it could end up costing you much more in co-pays and out-of-pocket costs to treat those ailments.
So what are you to do when deciding whether to undergo a recommended sleep study or home sleep test (HST) that’s not covered by your health insurance plan? Remember, forgoing a test just to save money could put your health, and therefore your financial security, at risk. Ironic, isn’t it?
If you decide to go forward with a sleep study or test, you can reduce the hit on your wallet by finding a reputable sleep clinic that offers diagnostic testing at the insurance-contracted rate (less than the “list price”), and discuss your options with your physician.
A home sleep test is a much lower-cost option that may be suitable for you. Do your homework. Talk to your physician and your insurance company to be sure you are comfortable with your test referral. The result of high-deductible plans is that patients are now in control of their care, so take control and get the care that is best for your situation.
Don’t skip the test that can result in a fix for your lack of sleep. Insufficient sleep could cost you much more over time if and when it leads to other, much more serious health problems.
Sleep Insights 