Increasing?healthcare costs have most people concerned about keeping expenses low, even leading some to pass up?health?insurance?because?they think they cannot afford it. Under the?Affordable Care?Act,?everyone must purchase?healthcare?coverage or risk paying a fine to the?government. Truth is, even if you have to pinch pennies for a while, you can't afford to skip health insurance. There’s always a chance you may slip at the pool and break a bone or your child may get burnt while roasting?marshmallows?at a backyard?BBQ.?

Even though you need health insurance, there are still ways you can cut back on expenses. Here are some tips to help you save money on your?healthcare costs.

Ask for the generic?prescription:?It's just as good as the name brand one, but without the colorful branding and catchy ad jingle. For?medications you take regularly, the savings can end up being?significant?over the course of a year.

Inquire about a cash discount:?When you haven't met your?deductible?and have to pay out-of-pocket, ask your doctor for a discount for paying in cash. Start the negotiations by offering to pay 50 percent of your bill; you'll be?surprised?at how well this can work in some cases.?

Give up unhealthy habits:?People who smoke, drink or live a sedentary lifestyle?usually?have more illnesses and long-term diseases. By?changing?your?lifestyle, you’re less likely to make frequent trips to the doctor.

Beef up your Health Savings Account:?Putting money in a?Health Savings Account?offers you a triple tax break. Contributions lower your taxable income, they grow tax-deferred and can be used tax-free for medical expenses. Find out if you're?eligible?for a?Health?Savings Account, and if so, open one and start contributing each year.

Get regular checkups:?Catching?diseases?or health problems early on is a key factor in treatment and regaining your good health. No matter how busy you are or how much you dislike the doctor's office, stay current on your checkups.

Lose weight:?With more than?a third of Americans obese, many people could stand to lose a few pounds. Even shedding as little as 10 percent of your body weight helps you stay?healthier?and cut your risk for many diseases.

Need healthcare coverage? Want more tips on saving in regards to healthcare? Your independent insurance agent is here to help!

We’ll help you find the right coverage. Call your agent today to get started on the right health care policy for you.