5 On Your Side

Tools to help you find the lowest price when searching for healthcare

We shop around for many things we buy, including healthcare. Non-members can search prices on healthcare facility websites, or call to compare prices.

Posted Updated

By
Monica Laliberte
, WRAL 5 On Your Side reporter/executive producer
RALEIGH, N.C. — We shop around for many things we buy, including healthcare.

"It is amazing how much prices can vary. And again, it's not related or directly tied to quality, studies have shown that," said Gerald Petkau, senior vice president of commercial markets at Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina.

A 5 On Your Side investigation showed the price disparities with a CT scan, comparing rates within the UNC Health system. using the same exact scan, with the same billing code and same insurance criteria. At 10 different UNC Health hospitals, we found 10 different prices.

"The MRI ranging from $700 to 2,500, the CT scan 600 to $2,500. And again, that's just in the Triangle region," Petkau said.

That disparity is why Petkau encourages patients to shop around for medical services. Members can use the insurer's website to see the list of facilities, procedures and the out-of pocket cost.

Non-members can search prices on healthcare facility websites, or call to compare prices.

Another money-saving opportunity offered by Blue Cross of North Carolina through some employers is the Smart Shopper program.
The program lists how much a test or procedure costs at different local providers. When you use a provider through the program, Blue Cross of North Carolina rewards you with a cut of the savings. Checks range from $25 to $1,000 for each procedure.

"Obviously we'd like to see consumers shop more for services because it saves them money," Petkau said. "It saves their employer money and ultimately over time it makes healthcare more affordable."

While the Smart Shopper program has been employer-based, Blue Cross of North Carolina just launched a pilot expansion of the program .to include members enrolled through the marketplace in the Fayetteville area.

You can check the insurance company's website to see if you're eligible.

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