Here are two ways to save money on health care expenses.
1. Shop for tests. If you need an expensive test that’s not covered by insurance, it might be worthwhile to compare prices among different labs and clinics. Fees can vary widely. Ask you doctor for the CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) code. If they can’t or won’t give it to you, The American Medical Association’s Web site, ama-assn.org, has an easy-to-use CPT search engine. Once you have the code, you can get price quotes from several providers.
2. Ask for cheaper drugs. Physicians don’t always know the cost of the drugs they prescribe. Ask your doctor if there is an equally effective but less expensive alternative to the medication you’re prescribed.

