Controlling Costs

Even though our patients will always benefit from our costs being the lowest, paying for infertility treatment can still be expensive. Did you know there are some things you can do that may help control your costs? Take a look at the information below for some ideas. Although it may take some research and effort on your part, the end result may be significant savings for you. If you have questions, our helpful staff will do their best to answer them. Hopefully, we can prevent financial hardship from being a deterrent to seeking treatment in your dream of having a child. Contact the Gyft Clinic today.

Cost Control Tip #1: Familiarize yourself with State Regulations

Familiarize yourself with state regulations about your rights to fertility coverage in your state. There are no federal guidelines mandating fertility coverage. Visit http:///ww.asrm.com for more information. You can contact your state representatives. Let them know you feel insurance providers should be required to provide fertility coverage.

You may consider joining "RESOLVE". They're a U.S. based infertility association. RESOLVE provides information to patients, medical professionals and the media. You can contribute to their lobbying efforts. They're dedicated to promoting the interests of hopeful parents. Visit their website at http://www.resolve.org.

Checking with your state to check your rights is a wise first step. Several states have regulations requiring different degrees of insurance coverage. Here's a short list of these states.

Arkansas
California
Connecticut
Hawaii
Illinois
Maryland
Massachusetts
Montana
New York
Ohio
Rhode Island
Texas

Cost Control Tip #2: Review your Insurance Coverage

Review your insurance coverage. If you and your spouse have access to different plans, review both plans carefully. Evaluate which plan offers the best coverage. If necessary, request a benefits booklet outlining your coverage. You should also speak with your employer's human resource department.

Cost Control Tip #3: Know your Condition and Cause

Speak with your doctor about your condition and understand its cause. Some insurance policies may have strict rules about what's covered and what's not. It's important to know the details about your condition before undergoing treatment or making a claim.

Do your homework before submitting a claim. Ask your fertility doctor or pharmacist if they're willing to help you find coverage. It's possible to have some of the specialty pharmacies provide a free "Fertility Medication Insurance Evaluation". Your doctor or pharmacist can be a helpful resource. They may have years of experience interacting with insurance providers and filing claims. Don't be afraid to ask how they can help you.

Cost Control Tip #4: Develop a Realistic Treatment Strategy

Develop a realistic treatment strategy with your specialist. Consider what treatments and/or medications might be covered by your insurance. And learn what the cost to you might be. Discuss the pros and cons of amending your strategy in response to your coverage or in response to changing financial circumstances. Be prepared. Financing procedures that are not covered may be a wise decision.

Cost Control Tip #5: Explore Options and Costs

Do you have a confirmed fertility problem? Start slow and work with your doctor to explore all options and associated costs. This is important if budgeting is an issue. Thoroughly review your insurance. Review all rules and ask for clarification when needed. Be persistent and thorough.

Even if you have terrific coverage, it may be necessary to cover some costs yourself. Do your homework, be prepared for the unexpected, and look for ways to keep costs down. You can usually do this by asking questions. For instance, simpler, "low-tech" treatments are often less expensive. Although many diagnoses may preclude the use of low cost alternatives, you won't know unless you ask.

Cost Control Tip #6: Be Persistent

Be persistent, ask questions, and don't be too willing to take "no" for an answer. Make sure you have explored every alternative. Keep this in mind when dealing with insurance issues.

Cost Control Tip #7: Explore Financing Options

We don't recommend taking out a second mortgage. And we don't recommend dipping into your retirement. These decisions are your choice, if you do, however. We do recommend you explore different financing options. You may want to check with your home bank or other lenders. For some couples, financial assistance may be available from The Fertility Foundation. They're an organization that provides financial assistance to couples trying to afford fertility treatment.

This isn't an exhaustive list on how to control fertility costs. We hope it guides you in the right direction in paying for your treatments. Remember, feel free to contact us with any questions you may have regarding treatment costs.

Contact the Gyft Clinic for affordable fertility and gynecology services. Schedule an appointment at 253-777-1964.