Healthcare Deductible Changes for the New Year

Healthcare reform has dominated the headlines for several years now, and our healthcare system has undergone major changes in the past few years. As a result, it can be confusing and overwhelming to try to understand what’s going on with healthcare or keep up with insurance changes from year to year. Now that the new year is almost here, healthcare deductible changes are on the horizon. Our Texas pain specialists at the pain clinic of Dr. Raul Martinez in San Antonio want patients to know about healthcare deductible changes for the new year so that they aren’t caught off-guard by unexpected cost increases or new identification numbers.

That’s why our pain management doctors have compiled an overview of healthcare changes to anticipate in the new year. To learn more about some of the changes to expect, read on.

Premium Prices are Changing

Health insurance premiums (the fixed amount customers pay each month for health plans) have been on the rise each year and will increase again in 2020. But the good news is, the market appears to be stabilizing. On average, premiums are expected to rise only slightly in 2020 in most states, and a handful of states are even predicting rate decreases.

Many Deductibles are Increasing

In the American healthcare system, deductibles are the amount you pay for healthcare services before your insurer begins to pay for your care. Once your deductible is met, you are usually only responsible for a copayment for covered services. Generally, deductibles increase each year. And for many Americans—including all 44 million Medicare enrollees—2020 is no exception.

In 2020, the new Medicare deductible will be $198—an increase from 2019’s $185 Medicare deductible. This increase has been driven by increased spending on drugs administered by physicians.

 Identification Numbers Will Change

If your deductible changes, your plan’s identification numbers will also change. And if your identification number changes, you need to let your pain doctor know about the change as soon as possible. You’ll also need to alert your pharmacy so that your prescriptions will be filled through your insurance and in a timely manner—if they aren’t given your new ID number, you may experience delays with refills. If you’re unsure whether or not your ID number will change in 2020, contact your insurer before the new year to make sure you aren’t caught off guard by unexpected changes to your plan.

You’ll Have More Options for Virtual Care

Experts suggest that telemedicine—or virtual care—will be more widely used in 2020. In fact, more than half of the respondents in a National Business Group on Health survey said they plan to offer more virtual care programs next year. This means you’ll have more opportunities to talk to a nurse or doctor about your condition while saving money and avoiding the emergency room.

Need to See Your Pain Doctor Before Deductibles Rise Next Year?

Schedule an Appointment at Our Pain Clinic Today

If you’ve already met your deductible for 2019, it makes sense to schedule your necessary appointments before the new year begins. And if you’re struggling with chronic pain, our pain management doctors at the San Antonio offices of Dr. Raul Martinez want to help. With more than 18 years of experience and thousands of successful procedures performed, Dr. Martinez is an expert in helping pain sufferers find a better quality of life.

Our Texas pain specialists are double board-certified in both pain management and pain medicine. Click to learn about some of our available treatment options, visit us in person, or schedule an appointment by either filling out our patient forms or contacting us today.