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MARCH 2023

6 ways to save on health care

When you stop smoking, drop those last stubborn pounds or get your yearly exam, it feels good. You’ve done something important for your physical well-being. But did you ever think those healthy changes might also be doing something for your financial well-being?

Taking care of your body can have a positive effect on your wallet. Here are just six ways you can save while taking better care of your health.

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1. Quit smoking.

The national average cost of a pack of cigarettes in the U.S. is $8.99, which (including federal and average state excise taxes) is around $273 per month or $3,281 annually for someone who smokes one pack per day.¹

2. Enroll in a DCAP or HCRA.

With a Dependent Care Assistance Plan (DCAP), you can set aside pretax dollars to reimburse yourself for qualified child and elder care expenses. A Health Care Reimbursement Account (HCRA) lets you do the same with eligible health care expenses, such as copays and premiums. Save money on your taxes by enrolling in a DCAP and/or HCRA administered by PayFlex^®* during Annual Enrollment.

3. Choose in-network doctors.

When you choose an in-network doctor, you’re choosing someone whose rates are in line with your Costco medical plan.

Want to save even more? 98point6^®* offers on-demand, text-based access to board-certified doctors who can diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. You and your family members age 1+ have access to 98point6 on-demand care as part of your Costco benefits package for up to $5 per visit. 

4. Know before you go.

Only go to the emergency room when it’s medically necessary. This includes when:

• Your condition appears to be life threatening
• Your condition could worsen and become life threatening on the way to the hospital
• Moving could cause you further harm or injury

If you’re not having an emergency, but need medical care right away, use 98point6 or go to your nearest in-network urgent care. Either of these options can provide the appropriate level of care and are far less expensive.

5. Use Costco Health Solutions* for your pharmacy needs.

If you’re enrolled in a Costco medical plan, you and your enrolled family members automatically receive prescription drug coverage, administered by Costco Health Solutions (CHS). Fill your prescriptions at any Costco pharmacy or through Costco Home Delivery Pharmacy and save.

6. Get a second opinion.

Whether you’re facing a cancer diagnosis, considering surgery or dealing with another serious medical condition, getting a second opinion from a board-certified specialist is often the smartest thing you can do. If you and your family are covered by a Costco medical plan, you can get an expert second opinion at no cost through 2nd.MD.*

*Not available in Puerto Rico.
¹Numbeo. Price Rankings by Country of Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro) (Markets)

Want to do even more to improve your physical well-being and save money? Your Costco benefits can help.