Pay For One Strep Test, Get the 2nd Test FREE!

"Gaeitha, I am sorry to have to ask this, but how much will the lab charge me for the services?"

In 10 years I have never asked what I would be charged to have medical tests performed for my children...

Some of you may be saying shame on me. I think the majority of you, however, are in my shoes.

As I took my 2 children in the office yesterday, I was confronted with questions I have never had to consider.

To the applause of my childcare provider they were patient, understanding and helpful.

As I juggled my cell phone in one ear, to verify if I could actually be at this office, the nurse took my children's temps, showed me an understanding smile and waited for the verdict.

Yes! We can be here, but OOPS! we didn't send you the card you need to pay for it. (This was followed by the steps I needed to have the office do for them to get paid.)

As I finally focus on my children, I learn that additional tests will follow. Here was the bombshell ," Kym, it may be cheaper to have the lab do these tests."

Up until this point, I have never once thought about pricing my child's care!

January 1, 2010 - Welcome to your new insurance plan!

With the changes in Medicare and job situations for the majority of our country, we find ourselves on the phone with the insurance company, our pharmacies, our old doctors who "AREN'T IN THE PLAN" and our "new" doctors that "ARE IN THE PLAN".

Yesterday, a 30 minute visit took me 2 1/2 hours + a 2 1/2 hour wait for the prescription and left me with buyer's remorse.

Think about this quote,

"Kym, we bargain shop for everything,why wouldn't we also want the lowest price for our health care services?"

One side of my brain says, "DUH?" But the other says, "BECAUSE IT IS HEALTHCARE!"

I am not buying designer shoes or a fuel efficient car! I do not want my physicians and nurses becoming businessmen. I want them being doctor's and nurses.

My office cared enough to step me through the process. They let me know my options. They helped me get the price comparison to make a smart decision.They know that my new insurance puts me in charge of my benefit dollars, but what experience do I have?

I am asking more questions that I ever had, make sure you are too!

PS I think I may need to call a psychiatrist when this is all said and done. I wonder when I can BING a price quote for the most cost effective one!