What do you do if you need help managing your budget as a patient?

1 Track your expenses

The first step to managing your budget as a patient is to track your expenses. This means keeping track of how much you spend on your medical care, such as copays, deductibles, prescriptions, tests, and treatments. You can use a spreadsheet, an app, or a notebook to record your expenses. This will help you see where your money is going, how much you can afford, and where you can cut costs.

3 Seek support

The third step to managing your budget as a patient is to seek support. This means reaching out to people who can help you with your financial challenges, such as family, friends, counselors, or advisors. You can also join support groups, workshops, or online communities where you can share your experiences, learn from others, and get tips and advice. You can also seek support from patient advocacy organizations, charities, or government agencies that offer resources, information, or assistance for patients.

4 Set goals and priorities

The fourth step to managing your budget as a patient is to set goals and priorities. This means deciding what is important for you and your health, and how much you are willing to spend on it. You can set short-term and long-term goals, such as saving for a procedure, paying off a debt, or improving your quality of life. You can also prioritize your expenses, such as paying for essential care, reducing unnecessary costs, or investing in preventive care.

5 Review and adjust

The fifth step to managing your budget as a patient is to review and adjust. This means checking your progress, evaluating your results, and making changes as needed. You can review your expenses, income, and savings regularly, and see if you are meeting your goals and staying within your budget. You can also adjust your plan, options, and support if your situation changes, such as changing your insurance, diagnosis, or treatment.

6 Learn more

The sixth step to managing your budget as a patient is to learn more. This means educating yourself about your condition, your rights, and your options. You can learn more by reading books, articles, or blogs, watching videos or podcasts, or attending webinars or workshops. You can also learn more by talking to your doctor, pharmacist, or patient advocate, and asking questions, getting clarifications, or seeking referrals. The more you learn, the more empowered you will be to manage your budget as a patient.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?