Half of Women over 50 Lose Sleep over Health Care Worries—Here’s How to Take Control
Smart, simple expert tips to cut costs, save on meds and avoid misinformation
If healthcare costs keep you up at night, take a deep breath—you’re far from alone. A recent University of Michigan poll reveals that 56 percent of women over 50 share your worry about medical expenses. Even with insurance, treatment decisions can feel overwhelming when every choice comes with a hefty price tag.
Jennifer Brown, M.D., who is dual board-certified in family medicine and obesity medicine, sees this every day in her practice. “Many women, especially those in marginalized groups, either don’t have adequate access to healthcare or are unaware of their options,” she says.
The poll revealed three major health care concerns keeping women over 50 up at night: the cost of medical care, prescription medication expenses and concerns about inaccurate health information. So we asked experts, including Dr. Brown and financial expert Steven Rogé, MS, CFP, AIF, Chief Investment Officer and CEO of R.W. Rogé & Company, Inc., for simple, actionable strategies to tackle each one—so you can stop worrying and start taking control.
Rogé wants you to know something important: “It’s okay to ask for help,” especially when navigating medical costs. You’re not being difficult or overly cautious—you’re being smart.
Take control of medical bills: simple steps that work
Rogé offers a simple mindset shift: “Think of it like buying a car—you wouldn’t drive off the lot without asking the price first. The same goes for medical care.”
Before your next appointment, call the office and ask exactly what the visit or test will cost. Then compare that price with nearby independent clinics or imaging centers. “You might be surprised how wide the spread can be,” Rogé notes.
After your visit, if a bill arrives, don’t panic—dissect it. “Ask for an itemized bill and the hospital’s financial-assistance policy,” Rogé advises. You might be surprised by what gets removed once you start asking questions.
Here’s another game-changer Rogé recommends: Create a simple one-page health budget. “List your premiums, typical copays, ongoing medications and a small cushion for sick or emergency visits.” This single sheet will help you compare plans, catch billing errors and feel more in control.
One more simple step that makes a big difference: “Keep a current medication list on your phone or in a notepad,” he urges. Include the dosage, schedule and reason for each medication, and bring it to every appointment. This helps your health care team spot anything you no longer need—and keeps everyone on the same page.
“These moves can help reduce surprise bills, make plan comparisons simpler, and help your care team cut out anything you no longer need,” Rogé explains.
Dr. Brown offers another way to save on health care: “Most communities have federally qualified health centers, which offer health care services on a sliding fee scale,” she says. “For women who are underinsured or uninsured, I recommend seeking out community health clinics or local health departments for their healthcare needs.”
Slash your prescription costs: Insider strategies
It’s a fact: Medications are expensive, and as we age, we are more susceptible to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, osteoporosis and a number of other conditions that can require prescription drugs.
What’s more, says Dr. Noor Ali, Founder at Dr. Noor Healthcare Advisor, “High-cost, new to market medications—especially injectables or specialty drugs—can come with limited or no coverage under traditional plans, leaving women to pay out of pocket.”
It’s no wonder that same University of Michigan poll found that 54 percent of adults 50 and older stress about medication expenses. But Rogé has smart strategies to help you save.
“A quick chat with your prescriber or pharmacist can go a long way,” he says. “Ask if there’s a lower-tier or generic option, then compare prices among local pharmacies. “Also smart: Check out GoodRx for coupons for prescriptions, price-comparison tools and more ways to save on medication.
Avoid inaccurate health info: What you need to know
Here’s one more concern you’re not alone in: 53 percent of adults over 50 worry about receiving inaccurate healthcare information, according to the poll. The good news? You can protect yourself with a few simple strategies.
Rogé’s first recommendation: When you’re researching health information online, “Stick to plain-language, evidence-based sources like the NIH [National Institutes of Health] These trusted sources help you avoid misleading or predatory websites.
Rogé also recommends bringing these four powerful questions to every appointment. They’ll help you cut through confusion and make confident decisions:
- What’s my diagnosis (in one sentence)?
- What are two treatment options?
- What’s the expected benefit of each?
- What’s the biggest risk I should watch for?
“Then repeat it back and write it down,” Rogé advises. “It keeps decisions clear and your wallet safe from unnecessary add-ons.”
Finally, consider bringing a trusted friend or family member to your appointment. “It’s amazing what a second set of ears can catch,” he says.
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