If you are planning an outpatient procedure you likely have options on where you have procedure. Using this pricing lookup tool from Medicare.gov you can compare national average prices for your procedure.

Provisions in the California Department of Justice conditional approval of the proposed merger between Dignity Health and Catholic Health Initiatives, require the California hospitals of the new system, CommonSpirit, to offer 100% discount through their financial assistance policies to patients earning up to 250% of the federal poverty level, begining in 2019.

 

Consumers should pay close attention to new benefits in Medicare Advantage (MA) plans in 2019. New benefits may include transportation, and home health visits.

At the same time, CMS is beginning to consider Medicaid demonstration waivers covering short-term stays for acute care provided in psychiatric hospitals or residential treatment centers in exchange for expanding access to community-based mental health services.

Eligible United Healthcare members participate by;

1. Asking your doctor about lower cost prescription drug alternatives.

2. Filling an eligible prescription.

3. Activating your My ScriptRewards.

4. Continuing your medication for 6 months.

You should receive a $250 gift card in the mail, and another $250 gift card when you complete 6 months of your prescription. Self-insured customers should be added to the the list of participants in Nov. Stay tuned to see if this program is expanded to other high cost specialty medications in 2019.