It’s shocking: $600 just to listen to your lungs and take a quick look inside your ear. If you have decent coverage, that might only mean a $50 copay. But for those with high deductibles or no plan at all, you could be facing a “discounted” bill of $400 or more.
Had you known the price beforehand, you might have passed on the appointment. Being forced to choose between your health and financial stability feels unjust.
The good news is you don’t have to pick one over the other. A service called Sesame lets you keep a lot more cash in your pocket at the doctor’s office. You can search for a clinician online or nearby and see the exact out-of-pocket price before booking — and spoiler: it’s usually far cheaper than going through insurance.
Visits From Just $25 — Yes, Really
Sesame operates an online marketplace where you can locate either an in-person or virtual doctor or specialist and know the cost upfront. Without involving insurance, visits can start as low as $25, and prescriptions can be delivered for as little as $5.
By removing the insurance middleman, Sesame helps people trim their medical expenses by an average of about 60%. That means the awful choice between medical debt and getting care is no longer as common.
Need to see a primary care provider? A dentist, dermatologist, or mental health professional? Whatever the specialty, you can find a clinician available today and pay a manageable out-of-pocket fee.
This approach is particularly helpful for freelancers, entrepreneurs, individuals with steep deductibles and, of course, the uninsured.
Locate a Provider and See Their Prices in Minutes
If you’re seeking care, Sesame simplifies the process. Visit their site to view available clinicians today and get a clear sense of cost — typical appointments range from $30 to $60.
Pick a provider, choose an appointment slot, and enter your name, phone number and credit card to pay and reserve the visit. There’s no need to create an account, and payment information is handled by a highly trusted third-party processor.
Although Sesame doesn’t accept insurance directly, you can use your HSA or FSA to pay. If your plan includes out-of-network coverage, you may submit your receipt for possible reimbursement.
Ready to get the care you need without paying hundreds out of pocket? Schedule your first Sesame appointment and use code TPH15 to take 15% off that visit.
Alex Morgan is a contributing writer at Savinly. He’s still covering the lingering cost of an unusually pricey pediatric visit.
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