Medical bills can be incredibly expensive and a serious burden on any family or individual. The leading cause of bankruptcy in the United States is medical bills, according to CNBC. Even with health insurance, you may need more help. There are alternatives to health insurance, like Health Care Sharing Ministries, such as JHS Community, which make health care affordable. Read on to see how you may still be able to afford medical bills even if you have financial concerns.

1. Negotiate

Before making any payments, you can try to negotiate with your healthcare provider. Some healthcare providers are willing to work with you if you can explain your financial situation. You may be able to get a discount or set up a payment plan to make your medical bills more manageable. The best way to approach this is by being honest and open about your health and financial situation. Be sure to document the results of any negotiations in writing.

2. Apply for Financial Assistance

You may be able to get help with medical bills through financial assistance programs. These programs can help people with mental or physical disabilities, veterans, and more. Some cities have free clinics for those in need as well.

3. Go to the VA Hospital

Are you a veteran or the spouse of a veteran? If so, you may be able to get health care at the Veteran’s Administration (VA) hospital. The VA healthcare system is designed to provide healthcare services for veterans, even those with limited incomes. The VA health care system offers many services at no cost or low cost. If you’re a disabled veteran, you often qualify for zero-cost health care at these facilities. You also have access to discounted or free dental care, physical exams, prescriptions, and surgeries if you have served your country.

4. Take Advantage of Your Education

Are you a college student or a recent graduate? Most colleges and universities give students access to affordable medical services, regardless of age. So, whether you’re a fresh-faced 18-year-old or returning to get a degree in middle age, you can access campus medical care at reduced rates. It often includes health care services like mental health counseling, physical examinations, and more.

5. Apply for Medicaid

Medicaid is a state healthcare program that provides health care services to the elderly, low-income individuals, and families. You may qualify for help with your health care costs if you meet certain requirements. Check with your state health department to find out what qualifications and paperwork you need to apply for Medicaid. There are Medicaid A, B, and C options, so make sure you apply for the one right for you.

6. Take Advantage of Tax Deductions

You may be able to deduct health care costs from your taxes. Check with the IRS for specific information about health care deductions and other tax advantages that may help you pay for health care. If you have a healthcare-designed savings account such as a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Savings Account (FSA), you can use pre-tax money to pay for medical costs.

7. Use Proper Medication Timing

According to AARP, “daily” refers to a 24-hour period when taking medications. Using proper timing for your medication can help you save money. Some healthcare providers charge more when prescriptions are taken over a longer period. Plus, if you begin missing your dosages, you may cause more health issues and end up having to pay more health bills in the long run. If you have a hard time affording medication, health care sharing ministries may provide discounts on prescriptions.

8. Look into Health Care Sharing Ministries

Of all the options listed in this article, the best option is, without a doubt, health care sharing ministries. A health care sharing ministry is an affordable healthcare program where members share in each other’s healthcare costs. These programs are not the same as health insurance, but they do offer some of the same programs at better rates. Your local health care sharing ministry is more flexible than health insurance, so it may be a good option if you looking to save money.

If you’re struggling with medical bills, you don’t have to suffer alone. We have a solution for you that can help make health care more affordable. Get started on the road to flexible and affordable health services and contact JHS Community today to learn more about how a health care sharing ministry might be the best option for you.