My doctor ordered lab tests and conveniently set it up at the nearby hospital (that his practise is part of). When I looked up the codes he had individually selected single blood tests rather than a "panel" of tests that included all his stuff and more. Turns out this more than doubles my cost. I have a relative working on the lab and she said the hospital instructed doctors to do it this way because "insurance does not pay enough". As early in the year, deductible / insurance does not cover it and I end up out of pocket a couple hundred extra.
You can google lab fees, common tests and come up with prices. And this shows what "groups" of common tests are available saving money. My nearby hospital will only provide price estimates if I call and ask. A bit of dd, researching can save hundreds.
While learning this I found a nearby quest lab costs half to a third less than the hospital for the same test.... and takes the same insurance.
Excuse me while I go draft a complaint how my doctor is not working in my interest.
March 19, 2017 at 09:33AM
