How often do you compare prices on a product or service before making a purchase? You may not think about comparing prices when you are using your health care benefits. But prices vary in health care, too.

These days, most of us like to do a little research to help make sure we are getting a good value. It pays to do research when getting health care.

Costs may vary greatly depending on where you go – and the higher cost does not always mean the quality is better. For example, the cost of an MRI may vary between $475 and $2517 depending on where you go. And CT scans may vary between $343 and $2,283.

By doing some research before you go to the doctor, you can make changes in how much you might pay out-of-pocket for health care.

Be a Smart Health Care Consumer

Lucky for you, we offer tools to help you make your health care choices. Our Provider Finder^® tool makes it easy to find a doctor or hospital in your health plan's network and compare their costs*. 

• Estimate the cost of up to 1,500 procedures, treatments and tests.
• View patient feedback or add your review for a provider.
• Review providers’ certifications and recognitions.

To log into Blue Access for Members^SM at BCBSIL.com or use the mobile app.

Click here for a walk-through of how to use the tool!

Questions? Log in to leave them in our comments section below.

*Cost estimates are not available for all plans. Before you schedule a diagnostic imaging procedure, your plan may require that you call a Benefits Value Advisor or Health Advocate. Your out-of-pocket costs may be higher if you do not call. Please see your plan documents for details. Cost estimates are just an estimate. In addition to your usual deductibles, copayments and/or coinsurance, the actual cost of the services may vary based on a number of factors including the date of service, the actual procedure performed, what services were billed by the provider and your particular benefit plan. Coverage is subject to the limitations and exclusions of your plan.

Originally published June 16, 2015