1. Communicate with your healthcare provider and directly convey to him or her that you are under financial constraints.  Ask about less expensive alternatives in regards to testing and therapeutics.  Make sure you know exactly what things are going to cost before you have them done or before you have to purchase them.
2. Request generic drugs and know exactly what prescription drugs are covered under your insurance plan.  Always bring a copy of your plan’s formulary with you on your doctor’s appointment.
3. Strictly avoid the emergency room except in the case of real emergencies.
4. Don’t skimp on routine health maintenance and preventive care.  The prevention of chronic disease remains infinitely less expensive than its treatment.
5. Take the very best care of yourself day to day.  You are the only person that can really make you healthy – people who are lean, fit, and have a healthy diet utilize medical services dramatically less than those who are overweight, sedentary, and have an unhealthy diet.

For more on staying healthy during this tough economic climate, check out my article Get Healthy – Save Money.