As the end of the year approaches, schedule time to review your medical needs. You may want to seek treatment that improves your health and allows you to meet your deductible.
Your health insurance deductible is the amount of money you pay before your insurance begins to share medical costs. Depending on your plan, a deductible may apply to all medical services or only to certain types of care. Call your insurance company or read your benefits paperwork to verify the deductible you owe; it is also listed on your Explanation of Benefits (EOB).
If you want more details about different deductible structures, see Aggregate Deductible Programs.
Why meet your annual deductible
Try to meet your deductible early in the year when possible, but meeting it in November or December still provides several advantages.
First, after you meet your deductible your insurance will cover more of your medical expenses, which helps you get the treatment you need without paying the full cost out of pocket.
Second, postponing important medical or preventive care can increase pain, suffering, and long‑term costs if conditions worsen and require more extensive treatment.
Finally, your deductible amount or plan structure may change if you switch coverage at the start of a new plan year; before a change takes effect, consider using remaining benefits or consult Large Deductible and Self Insured Retention (SIR) Placements for more information on high-deductible arrangements.
How to meet your deductible
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Order a 90‑day supply of prescription medicine.
Filling a longer prescription now can help you reach your deductible and ensure you have enough medication heading into the new year.
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See an out‑of‑network doctor.
A second opinion or specialist visit outside your network is usually paid out‑of‑pocket but often counts toward your deductible and can lead to covered next steps in treatment.
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Pursue alternative treatment.
Visits to chiropractors, acupuncturists, or other licensed providers may be eligible and help you reach your deductible while addressing health concerns.
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Get an eye exam if covered by your plan.
If vision exams are included, schedule an appointment and replace glasses or contacts if needed.
You can save money and protect your health by using available benefits before December 31. For personalized help, talk to an agent about your options and timing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What expenses typically count toward my deductible?
Most plans count payments for medical services such as doctor visits, procedures, and prescriptions toward the deductible, but specifics vary by plan.
Do vision or dental care count toward my medical deductible?
Not always; vision and dental are often separate benefits, so check your plan documents or member services to confirm.
Will an out‑of‑network visit count toward my deductible?
Out‑of‑network costs often count toward your deductible, but coverage levels and counting rules differ by insurer and plan.
Can I fill a prescription early to help meet my deductible?
Filling a 90‑day supply or requesting early refills may count toward your deductible, but verify pharmacy rules and plan policies first.