Co-Pay against my will?

Interesting Fact:  Many Health Insurance companies provide a free yearly exam/check-up
Unfortunate Fact: Many people will end up paying for it

When you schedule your yearly exam, depending on what your insurance covers, you will get basic lab work, a stethoscope to the chest, a flashlight shoved in your ears, and a number of other fun goodies.

Once a year, it's free.

Or is it?

Many people complain about receiving a bill for a co-pay after their yearly, run-of-the-mill exam.  The reason this happens, is that doctors can be tricky.  When you enter the exam room, follow these tips to ensure a free, insurance covered exam.

1. As soon as the doctor enters the room, state that you are there for your yearly physical. Speak first, take charge of your own health.
2. If the doctor asks what current health concerns you have, repeat that you are there for a physical.  If you discuss your sore knee, or a bad case of allergies, you have just moved into an office visit, and have voided your free physical.
3. If you develop health concerns shortly before your physical, tell the receptionist that you need to postpone your physical, but still need to see the doctor.  Pay your co-pay, and reserve your free visit for later.
4. Make sure to read your insurance company's definition of a physical.  Make sure the physician covers everything on that list, but nothing more.  If you have further concerns,that aren't urgent, make another appointment.

It's all in the code.  Medical coding is what creates unwarranted bills, or prevents them.  Ask your doctor or physician's assistant what code he/she has entered for your visit. Some doctors will code the visit themselves, while others have coders in their office, or contracted ones out of state.  When your visit is transcribed, the coder will use what the doctor has written to determine the level of care.  You want the code to begin with 993, not 992.  It will be a six digit code depending on your age.

What if they find something abnormal?
Sometimes they will find something that denotes a less than perfect state of health.  It's okay.  That's why you are there, for Preventive Care.  If something is wrong, they will send you on for further testing, much of which may be covered by insurance.
Don't be afraid to call your insurance company and ask about Services that are covered by your current plan.  Most insurance cards have a phone number listed.

Important:  If the doctor is concerned about something he/she finds, don't cheap out.  Get it checked. 

Remember: Physicians work for you.  They are body mechanics.  You have control over your own health.

Coming up..."Getting the most out of your doctor visit", and "How to get crucial prescriptions refilled, even on weekends"