From
monthly insurance premiums to prescription costs and co-pays, millions of
people are paying more for healthcare. Even if you didn’t change your
insurance plan for 2026, you could still be facing higher costs. Consumer
Reports says reviewing your coverage and taking a few proactive steps can help keep medical expenses in check.

Consumer
Reports investigative reporter Lisa Gill says the first step is understanding
exactly what your health plan covers. Insurance plans often change from year to
year, even if the provider stays the same. Networks may include different
doctors and hospitals, pharmacies can change, and the list of covered
medications may shift as well. Taking time to review these details can help
prevent surprise bills.

To
avoid unexpected charges, Consumer Reports recommends sticking with doctors,
clinics and hospitals that are in-network. These providers have negotiated
rates with your insurance company, which typically means lower out-of-pocket
costs.

Most insurers offer a “Find a Doctor” tool on their websites, and you
can always call a medical office directly to confirm that they accept your plan
before scheduling an appointment.

Prescription
drugs are another major expense, but savings may be available if you ask.
Before refilling a medication, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about
generic options, as well as manufacturer coupons or other discount programs.

Generics must meet the same safety and effectiveness standards as brand-name
drugs, and choosing them can lead to significant savings month after month.

If
you’re overwhelmed by a hospital bill, Consumer Reports says it’s worth asking
about financial assistance or charity care programs. Many hospitals offer help
that can reduce your balance—or even eliminate it—based on your income. Gill
notes that applying for this assistance can take persistence, and some people
may need to submit applications more than once to prove eligibility.

Another
often-overlooked resource is community health centers. These nonprofit clinics
provide primary care, and many also offer dental and mental health services.
They focus on serving uninsured, underinsured and low-income patients and
frequently charge on a sliding-fee scale based on income and family size.

Consumer
Reports also suggests considering a Health Savings Account or a Flexible
Spending Account if you’re eligible. Both allow you to set aside pre-tax money
from your paycheck to pay for qualified healthcare expenses, including
deductibles, over-the-counter medications, and even items like contact
lenses—helping your healthcare dollars go further.