The Complete Guide to Senior Healthcare Technology Savings

Healthcare is often the largest unpredictable expense in retirement. While insurance provides a foundation, out-of-pocket costs for prescriptions, dental care, hearing aids, vision, and unexpected emergencies can strain any budget.

The traditional healthcare model—driving to clinics, filling paper prescriptions at retail pharmacies, and reacting only to emergencies—is often the most expensive approach. Technology has fundamentally changed what's possible. By adopting a "digital-first" mindset, you can access wholesale drug pricing, automate preventative monitoring, compare prices instantly, and audit expensive medical bills.

This guide covers strategies that work regardless of your insurance type—whether you have Medicare, Medicaid, an ACA marketplace plan, or employer coverage.

Important: Technology, pricing, and program availability change. Always verify current offers with providers before making decisions. This guide provides general information, not medical or financial advice.

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Quick Start: 3 Strategies to Start Saving This Week

Don't have time to read the full guide? Start here:

1. Check GoodRx or Cost Plus Drugs for every prescription — Even with insurance, cash prices can be lower than your copay. Takes 2 minutes per prescription to compare.

2. Verify your telehealth coverage — Most insurance plans now cover virtual visits with reduced or no copays. One virtual visit can save significant money compared to urgent care or ER visits.

3. Consider OTC hearing aids if you have mild-to-moderate hearing loss — FDA-approved over-the-counter hearing aids typically cost 50-80% less than prescription alternatives with comparable results for many users.

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Understanding Your Insurance Options

Before diving into specific technologies, it helps to understand how your insurance type affects your options. Different coverage types have different benefits, and technology savings strategies work across all of them.

Medicare (Original vs. Medicare Advantage)

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) covers hospital stays and medical services but has notable gaps:

• No routine dental coverage
• No routine vision coverage
• No hearing aid coverage
• Prescription drugs require separate Part D plan

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans often include additional benefits:

• Many include dental, vision, and hearing benefits
• Telehealth services often enhanced
• Some cover fitness programs, meal delivery, and over-the-counter allowances
• Check your plan's "Summary of Benefits" document for specifics

Part D covers prescription drugs with varying formularies and copays. The strategies in this guide can help reduce costs even with Part D coverage.

Medicaid

Medicaid coverage varies significantly by state, but often covers more than people realize:

• Many states have expanded telehealth coverage
• Prescription drug benefits are typically comprehensive
• Some states cover dental and vision for adults
• Contact your state Medicaid office or visit your state's Medicaid website to understand your specific benefits

ACA Marketplace Plans

Affordable Care Act marketplace plans must cover "essential health benefits" including:

• Preventive care at no cost
• Prescription drugs
• Mental health services
• Telehealth coverage increasingly standard

Dental and vision are usually optional add-ons. Premium tax credits can significantly reduce costs for those who qualify.

Employer Insurance and Retiree Benefits

If you have employer coverage (including retiree benefits):

• Check if you have an HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account) — these allow tax-free spending on many health technology purchases
• COBRA continues employer coverage temporarily after leaving a job (but at full cost)
• Some employers offer wellness incentives for using health monitoring technology

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Online Pharmacies and Prescription Savings

Prescription drugs represent one of the largest opportunities for technology-enabled savings. The key insight: the price you're quoted at the pharmacy counter is often not the best available price.

Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs

Cost Plus Drugs operates on a transparent pricing model that bypasses traditional pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). Their formula: manufacturing cost + 15% markup + pharmacy fee + shipping.

How it works:

• Search their website for your medication
• Prices shown are the actual prices you pay
• Medications ship directly to your home
• You pay cash (not through insurance)

Best for: Generic medications, especially those with high retail markups. Many common generics cost just a few dollars for a 90-day supply.

Limitations: Not all medications are available. Brand-name selection is limited. Shipping takes several days.

Action: Search your current medications on CostPlusDrugs.com to compare prices before your next refill.

Amazon Pharmacy

Amazon Pharmacy offers prescription fulfillment with several savings options:

Prime member benefits: Free two-day delivery on prescriptions, plus access to discounted pricing on many medications.

RxPass: A subscription option that covers many common generic medications for a flat monthly fee. Covers treatments for conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, acid reflux, and anxiety.

Insurance integration: Unlike some discount pharmacies, Amazon Pharmacy can process your insurance and show you whether the insurance price or their discount price is lower.

Best for: Prime members who value convenience and want price comparison built in.

GoodRx and Discount Cards

GoodRx and similar services (SingleCare, RxSaver) aggregate discount coupons from pharmacies. They're not insurance—they're negotiated discount rates.

How to use them:

1. Search for your medication on the app or website
2. Compare prices at pharmacies near you
3. Select the best price and get a digital coupon
4. Show the coupon at the pharmacy counter

The "cash price" secret: Frequently, the cash price using a digital coupon is lower than your insurance copay. Always ask the pharmacist: "What is the price with my insurance, and what is the price with this coupon?" You can choose whichever is lower.

Important note: Payments made with discount cards do not count toward your insurance deductible. If you have very high drug costs and need to reach your deductible for catastrophic coverage, do the math to determine the best strategy.

How to Compare Prices Safely

Before filling any prescription, check at least three sources:

1. Your insurance copay
2. A discount card price (GoodRx, SingleCare)
3. Cost Plus Drugs (if the medication is available)

Verifying legitimate pharmacies: Only use pharmacies accredited by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). Look for the VIPPS (Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites) seal on online pharmacies. Visit Safe.pharmacy to verify any online pharmacy before ordering.

Red flags for illegitimate pharmacies:

• No prescription required
• Prices dramatically lower than all legitimate sources
• No U.S. address or licensed pharmacist contact
• Unsolicited emails or calls offering medications

Option	Best For	Typical Savings	Shipping	Works With Insurance?
Cost Plus Drugs	Generics with high markup	Often 50-90% vs. retail	Mail order only	No (cash only)
Amazon Pharmacy	Prime members, convenience	Varies, up to 80% on generics	Free 2-day (Prime)	Yes
GoodRx/SingleCare	Price comparison, local pickup	Up to 80% on generics	N/A (local pharmacy)	No (discount card)
Your Insurance	Brand-name drugs on formulary	Depends on formulary	Varies	Yes

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AI-Powered Medical Advocacy and Health Literacy

Artificial intelligence tools have matured into practical resources for understanding medical bills, navigating insurance, and improving health literacy. Used appropriately, they can help you avoid unnecessary costs.

Understanding Your Medical Bills

Studies consistently show that a significant percentage of medical bills contain errors—estimates range from 30% to 80% depending on the study and methodology. Common errors include:

• Duplicate charges: Being billed twice for the same service
• Unbundling: Charging separately for services that should be billed together at a lower rate
• Incorrect codes: Billing for a more expensive procedure than what was performed
• Services not rendered: Charges for services you didn't receive

What to do:

1. Always request an itemized bill (not just a summary)
2. Compare the itemized bill to your own records of what services you received
3. Look up unfamiliar CPT codes (the numeric codes that describe services)
4. Question anything that seems wrong

How AI can help: You can use AI chatbots to help understand billing codes, identify potential errors, and draft initial appeal letters. Upload a photo of your bill (with personal information redacted) and ask the AI to explain the charges and look for common billing errors.

Fighting Insurance Denials

All insurance types—Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial insurance—have appeal processes when claims are denied. You have the right to appeal, and many initial denials are overturned on appeal.

General appeal process:

1. Request a detailed explanation of why the claim was denied
2. Gather supporting documentation (doctor's notes, medical necessity letters)
3. Submit a formal written appeal within the deadline (usually 30-180 days)
4. If internal appeal fails, you can request an external review by an independent organization

Resources for help:

• Medicare.gov explains the Medicare appeals process
• Your state insurance commissioner handles complaints about commercial insurance
• Hospital patient advocates can help navigate the system (often free)
• Non-profit patient advocacy organizations provide assistance

How AI can help: AI tools can help draft appeal letters, explain your rights, and suggest relevant regulations to cite. However, for complex cases, consider consulting a professional patient advocate.

Health Literacy Tools

Understanding your health information reduces unnecessary appointments and helps you ask better questions.

Reliable resources for health information:

• MedlinePlus (medlineplus.gov) — NIH's consumer health information site
• CDC.gov — Authoritative information on conditions and prevention
• Your insurance company's nurse hotline — Many plans offer 24/7 access to nurses who can help you decide if you need care

Medication interaction checkers: Websites like Drugs.com offer free tools to check if your medications might interact with each other. Always discuss potential interactions with your pharmacist or doctor.

Understanding lab results: Patient portals often provide lab results with reference ranges. AI tools can help explain what results mean in plain language, but always discuss abnormal results with your healthcare provider.

Important warning: AI chatbots are not substitutes for medical advice. They can help you understand information and prepare questions, but they cannot diagnose conditions or recommend treatments.

Professional Patient Advocates

For complex situations, professional help may be worth the investment:

Hospital patient advocates: Most hospitals have patient advocates who can help with billing disputes, care coordination, and communication. This service is typically free.

Independent patient advocates: Professional advocates charge fees but can negotiate bills, coordinate complex care, and handle insurance disputes. Consider this for large bills or complicated situations.

Non-profit resources: Organizations like the Patient Advocate Foundation offer free assistance for people with chronic, life-threatening, or debilitating conditions.

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Wearables and Preventive Monitoring

The most expensive healthcare event is the emergency. A fall resulting in a hip fracture or a stroke resulting in hospitalization can cost tens of thousands of dollars and permanently impact quality of life. Wearables act as an "early warning system" and can help prevent emergencies.

Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs)

Originally designed for people with insulin-dependent diabetes, CGMs are now available over-the-counter for anyone wanting to understand how their body responds to food.

Who benefits:

• People with diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2)
• People with pre-diabetes wanting to prevent progression
• Anyone curious about how their body responds to different foods

Insurance coverage:

• Medicare covers CGMs for people with diabetes who meet certain criteria (insulin use or frequent blood sugar testing)
• Medicaid and commercial insurance coverage varies by plan
• Over-the-counter CGMs can be purchased without insurance or prescription

The preventive value: For people with pre-diabetes, understanding which foods spike blood sugar can help prevent progression to Type 2 diabetes—potentially avoiding years of medication costs.

Strategy: You don't need to wear a CGM forever. Consider a one-month "dietary audit" to see exactly which foods affect your blood sugar, adjust your diet accordingly, and potentially prevent expensive future treatments.

Smartwatches with Health Features

Modern smartwatches from Apple, Samsung, and others include health monitoring features that were once only available in clinical settings.

Key features for seniors:

• Heart rate monitoring: Continuous tracking can detect unusual patterns
• Irregular rhythm notifications: Some watches can detect signs of atrial fibrillation (AFib), a condition that significantly increases stroke risk
• ECG capability: FDA-cleared ECG features can record heart rhythm for your doctor to review
• Blood oxygen monitoring: Track oxygen saturation levels

Fall detection: Many smartwatches can detect hard falls. If you don't respond within a set time, the watch can automatically call emergency services and notify your emergency contacts.

Cost comparison: Traditional medical alert subscriptions typically cost significant monthly fees year after year. A smartwatch is a one-time purchase that often pays for itself within months while providing additional functionality.

For more on fitness technology for seniors, see our senior fitness savings guide.

Fall Detection and Medical Alert Systems

If a smartwatch isn't right for you, dedicated medical alert systems remain valuable options:

Types of systems:

• Home-based: Base station with wearable button, works within your home
• Mobile: GPS-enabled devices that work anywhere
• Smartwatch-integrated: Fall detection built into a watch

What to look for:

• Automatic fall detection (not just a button to press)
• GPS location for mobile use
• Two-way communication
• Water resistance
• Battery life

Medicare coverage: Original Medicare does not cover medical alert systems. Some Medicare Advantage plans include them as a benefit. Check your plan documents.

Blood Pressure Monitors and Other Home Devices

Monitoring health metrics at home can reduce unnecessary office visits and catch problems early.

Validated home blood pressure monitors: The American Heart Association recommends home monitoring for people with high blood pressure. Look for monitors validated by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI).

Pulse oximeters: These small devices measure blood oxygen saturation. Useful for people with respiratory conditions or recovering from illness, but not necessary for everyone.

Smart scales: Track weight trends over time, which can be important for managing heart failure or other conditions.

HSA/FSA eligibility: Many health monitoring devices are eligible expenses for Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts. Check with your plan administrator.

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Telehealth and Virtual Care

Telehealth has transformed from a novelty into a standard part of healthcare. For many routine needs, virtual visits are more convenient, less expensive, and just as effective as in-person care.

Insurance Coverage for Telehealth

Coverage has expanded significantly across all insurance types:

Medicare: Medicare has permanently expanded telehealth coverage for many services. Most telehealth visits are covered with the same cost-sharing as in-person visits. Some restrictions on provider location and eligible services may apply.

Medicare Advantage: Many Medicare Advantage plans offer enhanced telehealth benefits, including access to telehealth platforms and reduced or zero copays for virtual visits.

Medicaid: Coverage varies by state, but most states have expanded telehealth coverage significantly. Contact your state Medicaid office for specifics.

Commercial/Employer Insurance: Telehealth coverage is now standard in most commercial plans. Many plans offer $0 copay telehealth through contracted platforms.

When to Use Telehealth

Appropriate for telehealth:

• Follow-up appointments for stable conditions
• Medication management and prescription refills
• Minor acute issues (cold, flu, UTI, rash, pink eye)
• Mental health therapy and psychiatry
• Reviewing lab results
• Getting medical advice on whether you need in-person care

Not appropriate for telehealth:

• Emergencies (chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms)
• Conditions requiring physical examination
• Procedures and treatments
• Situations where imaging or lab work is needed first

The savings: Telehealth eliminates transportation costs, parking fees, and time away from other activities. Copays are often lower than urgent care or ER visits. For minor issues, a telehealth visit can save substantial money compared to going to urgent care or the emergency room.

How to Prepare for a Virtual Visit

To get the most from a telehealth appointment:

Technical requirements:

• Device with camera and microphone (smartphone, tablet, or computer)
• Reliable internet connection
• Quiet, private location

Information to have ready:

• Current list of medications (or have the bottles nearby)
• Description of symptoms (when they started, what makes them better or worse)
• List of questions you want to ask
• Insurance card
• Pharmacy information for prescriptions

Tips for clear communication:

• Test your technology before the appointment
• Ensure good lighting so the provider can see you clearly
• Speak clearly and don't hesitate to ask for clarification
• Take notes or ask for written follow-up instructions

Family assistance: It's perfectly fine to have a family member help you with the technology or sit in on the appointment.

Direct-to-Consumer Telehealth Services

Services like Teladoc, MDLive, and others offer on-demand access to healthcare providers.

When they make sense:

• Your primary care provider doesn't offer telehealth
• You need care outside normal office hours
• You're traveling and need quick access to a provider

Limitations to understand:

• Providers don't know your medical history
• May not coordinate with your primary care provider
• Some services don't accept insurance
• Not a substitute for an ongoing relationship with a primary care provider

Check your insurance first: Many insurance plans contract with telehealth platforms and offer visits at no cost or reduced cost. Check your insurance company's website or app before paying out-of-pocket for direct-to-consumer services.

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Food as Medicine Programs

The connection between nutrition and health is well-established. Technology has made it easier to access programs that provide healthy food as part of healthcare.

Medically Tailored Meal Programs

Medically tailored meals are designed by dietitians for people with specific health conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, heart failure, or cancer.

How they work:

• Meals are designed to meet the nutritional needs of specific conditions
• Typically delivered frozen to your home
• Heat and serve—no cooking required

Insurance coverage:

• Some Medicare Advantage plans cover medically tailored meals as a supplemental benefit
• Medicaid waiver programs in some states cover meals for qualifying conditions
• Coverage is expanding as research demonstrates cost savings from preventing hospitalizations

Check your benefits: Log into your Medicare Advantage plan's website or call member services to ask about meal delivery benefits. Many people don't know they have this coverage.

Grocery Delivery Services

Grocery delivery isn't just about convenience—it can be a healthcare savings strategy:

Hidden savings:

• Reduces impulse purchases (you buy exactly what you planned)
• Eliminates transportation costs
• Reduces fall risk from navigating parking lots and carrying heavy bags (falls are a leading cause of injury-related ER visits for seniors)

SNAP benefits: Major grocery delivery services (Instacart, Walmart, Amazon Fresh) accept SNAP benefits in most states.

Senior discounts: Some services offer reduced or waived delivery fees for seniors or with membership programs.

For more strategies on reducing grocery costs, see our guide to saving 20% or more on groceries.

Produce Prescription Programs

A growing number of healthcare providers now "prescribe" fruits and vegetables through produce prescription programs.

How they work:

• Your doctor writes a "prescription" for produce
• You receive vouchers or a debit card to purchase fruits and vegetables
• Vouchers are redeemed at participating grocery stores or farmers markets

Finding programs: Ask your healthcare provider if they participate in produce prescription programs. Community health centers are often participants. The non-profit organization Wholesome Wave maintains information about programs nationwide.

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OTC Hearing Aids

Hearing loss affects a significant percentage of adults over 65, yet many go without treatment due to cost. The FDA's establishment of an over-the-counter hearing aid category has created new affordable options.

Understanding the OTC Option

The FDA created a category for over-the-counter hearing aids for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. This means you can purchase hearing aids directly from retailers without a prescription, hearing test, or audiologist fitting.

Typical savings: OTC hearing aids typically cost 50-80% less than traditional prescription hearing aids. While prescription hearing aids often cost several thousand dollars per pair, OTC options range from a few hundred to around a thousand dollars.

Who qualifies: OTC hearing aids are appropriate for adults 18 and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. Signs of mild to moderate loss include:

• Difficulty hearing in noisy environments
• Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
• Turning up TV volume higher than others prefer
• Missing parts of conversations

When OTC is Appropriate vs. When to See an Audiologist

OTC may be appropriate if:

• Your hearing loss is mild to moderate
• Loss is relatively consistent in both ears
• You don't have ear pain, drainage, or sudden hearing loss
• You're comfortable self-fitting with app guidance

See an audiologist if:

• You have severe hearing loss
• Hearing loss is sudden or rapidly worsening
• You have ear pain, drainage, or dizziness
• Hearing loss is significantly different between ears
• You've never had your hearing tested

Value of a baseline test: Even if you plan to buy OTC hearing aids, consider getting a professional hearing test first. This establishes a baseline, confirms your hearing loss is in the appropriate range for OTC devices, and rules out conditions that need medical attention.

Purchasing and Adjusting OTC Hearing Aids

Where to buy:

• Major pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens)
• Electronics retailers (Best Buy)
• Warehouse clubs (Costco)
• Online retailers
• Directly from manufacturers

What to expect:

• Most OTC hearing aids use a smartphone app for self-fitting
• Apps guide you through a hearing test and adjust the device
• Adjustment period is normal—your brain needs time to adapt
• Return policies typically allow 30-60 days to try the device

Tips for success:

• Start wearing hearing aids for short periods and gradually increase
• Use them consistently—occasional use delays adaptation
• Keep follow-up appointments if offered
• Consider devices with customer support access

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Dental and Vision Savings

Original Medicare does not cover routine dental care or routine vision care (eye exams for glasses). This gap leaves many seniors paying full price for these essential services. Technology and alternative programs can significantly reduce these costs.

Dental Savings Options

Medicare Advantage dental benefits: Many Medicare Advantage plans include dental coverage. Benefits vary widely—some cover only cleanings and exams, while others include major work like crowns and dentures. Review your plan's dental benefits during open enrollment.

Dental discount plans: These are not insurance but membership programs that provide discounted rates at participating dentists. Typical discounts range from 10-60% on services. Annual membership fees are modest compared to potential savings.

Community health centers: Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) offer dental services on a sliding fee scale based on income. Find locations at findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov.

Dental schools: Dental schools offer services performed by students under faculty supervision at reduced rates. Quality is typically excellent, though appointments take longer. The American Dental Association maintains a list of accredited dental schools.

Teledentistry

Teledentistry uses video consultations with dentists for certain services:

What teledentistry can do:

• Initial consultations and treatment planning
• Follow-up appointments after procedures
• Triage to determine if you need in-person care
• Second opinions on treatment recommendations

What teledentistry cannot do:

• Cleanings, X-rays, or any hands-on procedures
• Diagnose conditions that require physical examination
• Replace regular dental checkups

When it saves money: Teledentistry is most valuable for getting advice before committing to expensive treatment, obtaining second opinions, and determining whether a dental concern requires urgent care.

Vision Savings

Medicare vision coverage: Original Medicare covers vision care only for specific medical conditions (glaucoma screening, diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration) but not routine eye exams for glasses or the glasses themselves.

Medicare Advantage vision benefits: Many Medicare Advantage plans include routine vision benefits with allowances for glasses or contacts. Check your plan documents.

Vision discount programs: Programs like VSP and EyeMed offer discounted rates on eye exams and eyewear for a membership fee.

Retail vision centers: Stores like Costco, Walmart, and Target often offer competitive prices on eye exams and glasses compared to private optometrists.

Online Eyewear Retailers

Online retailers have dramatically reduced the cost of prescription eyeglasses:

How they work:

1. Get your prescription from an eye exam (you're entitled to a copy)
2. Measure your pupillary distance (PD)—many retailers provide instructions
3. Enter your prescription on the website
4. Select frames and lens options
5. Glasses ship directly to you

Popular online retailers: Zenni, EyeBuyDirect, Warby Parker, and others offer glasses at a fraction of traditional optician prices. Basic single-vision glasses can cost under $50 complete, compared to several hundred dollars at traditional retailers.

Considerations:

• Online works best for straightforward prescriptions
• Progressive lenses and complex prescriptions may need professional fitting
• Return policies vary—check before ordering
• Some retailers offer virtual try-on using your phone's camera

Insurance Type	Routine Dental	Routine Vision	Where to Find Benefits
Original Medicare	Not covered	Not covered (some medical conditions only)	Medicare.gov
Medicare Advantage	Often included	Often included	Plan Summary of Benefits
Medicaid	Varies by state	Varies by state	State Medicaid office
ACA Marketplace	Usually optional add-on	Usually optional add-on	Plan documents
Employer Plans	Often separate election	Often separate election	HR department

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Mental Health Tech

Mental health care has become more accessible through technology. Federal parity laws require most insurance plans to cover mental health services comparably to physical health services.

Telemental Health Coverage

Telehealth has been particularly transformative for mental health care:

Medicare: Medicare covers telemental health services including therapy and psychiatry. Many geographic restrictions have been removed, making care accessible regardless of where you live.

Medicaid: Most state Medicaid programs cover telemental health services. Coverage details vary by state.

Commercial insurance: Under the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, most commercial insurance plans must cover mental health services, including telehealth delivery.

Advantages of telemental health:

• No travel required—particularly valuable for those with mobility limitations
• May feel more comfortable discussing sensitive topics from home
• Easier to maintain regular appointments
• Broader choice of providers not limited by geography

Finding In-Network Telemental Health Providers

Insurance directory searches: Start with your insurance company's provider directory. Many now allow filtering for telehealth availability.

Telehealth platforms that accept insurance: Platforms like Teladoc, MDLive, and Cerebral offer mental health services and accept many insurance plans.

Community mental health centers: Federally funded community mental health centers offer services on sliding fee scales and increasingly provide telehealth options.

Mental Health Apps

A growing category of smartphone apps offer mental health support:

What apps can provide:

• Guided meditation and relaxation exercises
• Mood tracking and journaling
• Cognitive behavioral therapy exercises
• Peer support communities
• Crisis resources

What apps cannot provide:

• Diagnosis of mental health conditions
• Prescription medications
• Replacement for professional treatment when needed

Important limitations: Most mental health apps are not FDA-approved treatments. They can be helpful supplements to professional care or for general wellness, but should not replace treatment for diagnosed conditions.

Privacy considerations: Before using any mental health app, review its privacy policy. Understand what data is collected and how it's used. Some apps share data with third parties.

Insurance and employer coverage: Some insurance plans and employers offer premium mental health apps as a benefit. Check with your HR department or insurance company.

Crisis Resources

Know these resources for mental health emergencies:

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24/7. Available to anyone in emotional distress.

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.

Veterans Crisis Line: Veterans can call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat online.

When to seek emergency care: Go to an emergency room or call 911 for immediate risk of harm to self or others.

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Patient Assistance Programs

If you're struggling to afford medications—even with insurance—patient assistance programs may help. These programs are often underutilized because people don't know they exist.

Pharmaceutical Manufacturer Programs

Most major pharmaceutical manufacturers offer patient assistance programs for their brand-name medications:

Who qualifies:

• Income limits vary by program (some up to 400% of federal poverty level)
• Some programs are available even if you have insurance
• Specific eligibility requirements vary by medication and manufacturer

How to apply:

1. Find the program on the manufacturer's website or through a database
2. Complete an application (may require income documentation)
3. Have your doctor complete the prescription portion
4. If approved, medication ships directly to you or your doctor's office

Finding programs: The PhRMA Medicine Assistance Tool (medicineassistancetool.org) is a searchable database of manufacturer programs.

NeedyMeds

NeedyMeds is a non-profit organization that maintains a comprehensive database of assistance programs:

What they offer:

• Searchable database of patient assistance programs
• Information about disease-specific assistance
• Drug discount card (free)
• Diagnosis-based assistance programs for expenses beyond medications

Website: NeedyMeds.org (all information is free)

RxAssist

RxAssist provides another comprehensive database of patient assistance programs:

Features:

• Searchable by medication name
• Lists eligibility requirements for each program
• Provides application links and contact information
• Includes both manufacturer and independent programs

Website: RxAssist.org

State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs)

Many states offer additional help with medication costs:

How they work:

• Eligibility and benefits vary by state
• Some help pay Medicare Part D premiums or copays
• Others provide medications directly
• Can work alongside Medicare Part D

Finding your state's program: Medicare.gov maintains a list of State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs. Contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for help navigating options.

For more information about Medicare savings programs, see our guide to Medicare savings programs.

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Staying Safe Online

As more healthcare moves online, it's crucial to protect yourself from scams and fraud. Seniors are frequently targeted by healthcare-related scams.

Common Healthcare Scams

Medicare scams:

• Calls claiming your Medicare card needs to be replaced
• Offers of "free" equipment or services in exchange for your Medicare number
• Fake Medicare "representatives" asking for personal information
• Enrollment scams during open enrollment periods

Pharmacy scams:

• Websites selling medications without requiring prescriptions
• Dramatically lower prices than all legitimate sources
• Unsolicited emails or calls offering medications
• "Canadian pharmacy" scams that ship counterfeit drugs

Medical equipment scams:

• Calls offering free back braces, knee braces, or other equipment
• Genetic testing scams ("free DNA test" offers)
• COVID-19 related scams (fake tests, treatments, vaccines)

The common thread: Scammers want your Medicare number, Social Security number, or credit card information. Legitimate organizations don't call you unsolicited asking for this information.

How to Verify Legitimate Services

Online pharmacies:

• Verify VIPPS accreditation at NABP.pharmacy
• Check Safe.pharmacy database
• Legitimate pharmacies require valid prescriptions
• Look for a U.S. address and licensed pharmacist contact

Medicare plans:

• Use Medicare.gov's plan finder to verify plan legitimacy
• Call 1-800-MEDICARE to verify information
• Never give your Medicare number to unsolicited callers

Healthcare providers:

• Verify licenses through your state licensing board
• Check that providers are in your insurance network through your insurance company's website
• Be wary of providers you find only through social media ads

Protecting Your Health Information Online

Password security:

• Use strong, unique passwords for patient portals
• Enable two-factor authentication when available
• Don't share login credentials with others (family members who need access should have their own authorized access)

Recognizing phishing:

• Be suspicious of emails asking you to click links to verify information
• Legitimate healthcare organizations won't ask for passwords via email
• When in doubt, call the organization directly using a number you find yourself (not one provided in a suspicious email)

Public WiFi:

• Avoid accessing health information on public WiFi
• If you must, use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)
• Wait until you're on a secure network for sensitive tasks

What to share and when:

• Only provide Medicare/insurance numbers to verified providers
• Never give information to unsolicited callers
• It's okay to say "I'll call you back" and verify the organization independently

Reporting Fraud

If you suspect fraud or have been a victim:

Medicare fraud: Call 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477) or visit oig.hhs.gov

FTC complaints: Report scams at reportfraud.ftc.gov

State resources: Contact your state attorney general's office for state-level assistance

Identity theft: If your Medicare number or personal information was compromised, visit identitytheft.gov for recovery steps

Your state SHIP: State Health Insurance Assistance Programs can help you understand if something is legitimate and what to do if you've been scammed

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Cost Comparison: Traditional vs. Tech-Enabled Healthcare

This table summarizes typical savings opportunities covered in this guide:

Healthcare Need	Traditional Approach	Tech-Enabled Alternative	Typical Savings
Generic prescription	Retail pharmacy (insurance copay)	Cost Plus Drugs, GoodRx	Often 50-80%
Minor urgent issue	Urgent care or ER visit	Telehealth visit	Varies, often significant
Hearing aids	Audiologist-fit prescription	OTC hearing aids	50-80%
Eyeglasses	Traditional optician	Online retailer	60-90%
Mental health session	In-person office (if available)	Telehealth therapy	Same copay, no travel costs
Blood pressure monitoring	Office visits	Home monitor (one-time purchase)	Multiple copays saved
Fall monitoring	Monthly subscription service	Smartwatch with fall detection	Eliminates monthly fees

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I have Medicare Part D. Should I still check GoodRx prices?

A: Yes. Sometimes the cash price with a discount card is lower than your Part D copay, especially for generic medications. However, discount card purchases don't count toward your Part D deductible or out-of-pocket maximum. If you have very high drug costs and expect to reach catastrophic coverage, calculate whether it makes sense to pay your Part D copay to accumulate toward that threshold.

Q: Are OTC hearing aids as good as prescription ones?

A: For mild to moderate hearing loss, many OTC options provide comparable amplification and sound quality. However, prescription hearing aids may be better for severe hearing loss, complex hearing profiles, or if you need specialized features. A professional hearing evaluation can help determine what's right for you.

Q: Is telehealth really covered by Medicare?

A: Medicare has significantly expanded telehealth coverage. Most telehealth visits are now covered with the same cost-sharing as in-person visits. Some restrictions on specific services may apply. Check Medicare.gov for current coverage details or call 1-800-MEDICARE.

Q: How do I know if an online pharmacy is safe?

A: Verify the pharmacy is VIPPS-accredited through NABP.pharmacy or listed on Safe.pharmacy. Legitimate online pharmacies require valid prescriptions, have a U.S. address, and provide access to a licensed pharmacist. Be suspicious of prices dramatically lower than other legitimate sources or pharmacies that don't require prescriptions.

Q: Can I use patient assistance programs if I have insurance?

A: Often yes. Many manufacturer programs are available to people with insurance who still face high costs. Each program has specific eligibility requirements. Check the program details or call the manufacturer's patient assistance line.

Q: What's the catch with direct-to-consumer telehealth services?

A: These services can be convenient for quick access to care, but they have limitations. Providers don't know your medical history, visits may not be coordinated with your primary care provider, and some don't accept insurance. They work best for simple, acute issues rather than ongoing care.

Q: My doctor doesn't offer telehealth. What are my options?

A: You can ask if your provider will adopt telehealth, find a different in-network provider who offers it, or use your insurance's contracted telehealth service (many plans offer this). For ongoing care, consider finding a primary care provider who offers telehealth as part of their practice.

Q: Are mental health apps safe to use?

A: Apps from reputable organizations are generally safe for self-help and wellness purposes. However, they're not FDA-approved treatments and shouldn't replace professional care for diagnosed conditions. Review privacy policies before sharing personal information, as data practices vary widely.

Q: Do I need special equipment for telehealth?

A: Most telehealth visits require a device with a camera and microphone (smartphone, tablet, or computer) and internet connection. Some visits can be audio-only, which works with a regular phone. If you don't have the equipment, ask about audio-only options or community resources like libraries that may offer private telehealth spaces.

Q: How do I avoid Medicare scams?

A: Never give your Medicare number to unsolicited callers. Medicare won't call to sell products, ask for payment over the phone, or threaten to cancel your coverage. If someone claims to be from Medicare, hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE directly. Report suspicious contacts to 1-800-HHS-TIPS.

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Action Checklist

Immediate Actions (This Week)

• ☐ Look up your most expensive prescriptions on GoodRx and Cost Plus Drugs
• ☐ Call your insurance to verify telehealth coverage and copay amounts
• ☐ Review your insurance plan documents for hearing, vision, and dental benefits
• ☐ If you have hearing concerns, research OTC hearing aid options

Short-Term Actions (This Month)

• ☐ Schedule a telehealth visit for your next minor health concern
• ☐ If applicable, apply for patient assistance programs for expensive medications
• ☐ Request an itemized bill for any recent medical services and check for errors
• ☐ Compare eyeglass prices online vs. your last optician purchase

Ongoing Actions

• ☐ Always compare prices before filling prescriptions (insurance, discount card, cash)
• ☐ Review Medicare Advantage plans during Open Enrollment for better benefits
• ☐ Save 988 (crisis line) in your phone contacts
• ☐ Never share Medicare number with unsolicited callers

Technology Setup

• ☐ Download your insurance company's app for telehealth access
• ☐ Set up patient portal access with your healthcare providers
• ☐ Bookmark pharmacy comparison websites (GoodRx, Cost Plus Drugs)
• ☐ Create strong, unique passwords for all health-related accounts

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Sources and Resources

Official Government Sources

• Medicare.gov — Official Medicare information, plan finder, coverage details
• CMS.gov — Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services policy information
• FDA.gov — Drug safety, OTC hearing aid regulations, medical device information
• FTC.gov — Consumer protection, scam alerts, fraud reporting
• SAMHSA.gov — Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
• MedlinePlus.gov — NIH consumer health information

Research and Policy Organizations

• Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF.org) — Healthcare policy research and data
• AARP.org — Consumer resources and advocacy for older adults
• National Council on Aging (NCOA.org) — Benefits check, senior resources

Patient Assistance Resources

• NeedyMeds.org — Drug discount programs database
• RxAssist.org — Patient assistance program directory
• Medicine Assistance Tool (PhRMA) — Manufacturer program finder

Pharmacy Verification

• NABP.pharmacy — VIPPS accredited pharmacy verification
• Safe.pharmacy — Legitimate online pharmacy database

Healthcare Provider Resources

• FindAHealthCenter.HRSA.gov — Community health center locator
• American Dental Association — Dental school locator