Most consumers are aware that by utilizing " In Network Providers" with your Insurance Company you will have higher coverages and lower out of pockets costs. But there are so many ways to maximize your Insurance benefits coverages while decreasing your Out Of Pocket costs. By Being an educated consumer and yes sometimes having to take extra steps or making calls can in the end, save you money. Firstly, create a folder at home for matching up your Physicians billing with that of your EOB (Explanation of Benefits) claims processing receipt to ensure your providers office has not overbilled you. If you use a "Contracted/In Network Provider" they are locked into a contract for pricing. What does this mean? If your Doctor charged $100 for the exam and your EOB/Claim states their contracted price for reimbursement is only $50.00; you do not owe the $50.00 difference. They may bill you, but if they are In-Network aka Contracted, you do not owe the difference. SO before you cut the check to them, call your Insurance company and speak to a representative. Often times, they have provider and member Advocates who can resolve this with your providers billing (ask as they may not just offer this service until you ask). Secondly, if your Doctors mentions you need; a blood pressure monitor, a hospital bed, oxygen, a walker, a wheelchair etc. This is called Durable Medical Equipment or DME for short. Before you run out and pick it up from your local vendor, verify with your Insurance company who their local providers are (quick service and supporting the little guy) as well ask if the have National Contracted Providers. It can be time consuming but by calling the vendors and asking their pricing can often vary by hundreds if not thousands of dollars. This can ultimately affect your pocketbook and overall expenses and works for Prescription Medications as well. Thirdly, Follow up on your Physicians billing. Over the past few years, Physician offices have become create with their billing to try and maximize their income. Under Medicare and most insurances we are allowed 100% coverage for a 1 time in 12 months "Annual Wellness Examinations." This is covered under Part B of Medicare (Outpatient Physician Services). Whether you have Medicare or Insurance they process the same in claims. If you receive a bill and you owe MORE, you need to check the providers billing information and coding. They may have coded it incorrectly (follow up exam vs an Annual Wellness) or when you asked about the weather, that aching hip you have or any other medical questions; they can add that and "pad their bill." Again, often you have to be your own Advocate, question the bill, question the office billing staff and reach out to your Insurance claims department for accuracy prior to paying their bill. Finally, being a smart consumer takes patience & time but again, in the end can save you money.