Beware of Medical Discount Card Scammers

Awhile ago, our writer Benny wrote about the the medical discount card ProCare. Medical discount cards are popular nowadays with so many uninsured or underinsured Americans. In a recent article in AARP’s  ”Discount health cards not a panacea for uninsured”, over 28 million Americans use discount plans according to the Consumer Health Alliance.

These cards promise to save the consumer up to 50% off of services and products. Some of the companies offering these cards may be legitimate and some may not be.  Therefore, consumers must exercise caution and do thorough research on any company that promises to deliver significant savings on medical services. Sometimes you may not be able to find a doctor on the network, or you may not be able to afford the service.

BBB

BBB is always a great place to start. You can always look up the company and see if there are any complaints against them.

Your State’s Insurance Commission

You may also want to check your state’s insurance commission office to find reputable and approved companies. If you live in Florida, Blue Cross offers a couple of medical discount cards that you can feel comfortable with.

Even after you do your homework, make sure you get a list of the doctors on the insurance card’s network. Personally call them and ask them if they take that discount card and how much of a discount they are willing to negotiate for that service. Also look for hidden fees and fine print –it’s better to have nothing than to have nothing and then pay something!

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