Discounted Medical Bills: Here's a Trick to Save Money on Health and Medical Expenses by Leslie W

If you are like my family, medical expenses can be hard on the budget. My husband handles all of the household bills, except medical bills, which I am in charge of. Navigating how best to pay unexpected bills is not easy. Here's a tip most people are not aware of: Medical providers do not necessarily offer discounts. However, if you ask for a discount when paying larger bills for services such as emergencies, surgeries, anesthesia or lab charges, many providers will offer discounts of 10 to 25 percent. 

If my bill is $100 or more, I always ask for a discount, then pay in full by credit card (which I then pay off immediately). Additionally, if you have a credit card that offers rewards, this is an added bonus! And if you use money from a medical savings account, you save even more because that income isn't taxed. I saved $625 this year already on medical bills. 

The next time you have to pay a medical bill, ask for a discount. It can't hurt to ask. The worst thing that can happen is the billing department will say no.