WHAT IS A DEDUCTIBLE?

A deductible is dollar amount needed to be satisfied per calendar year before you insurance coverage kicks in. This amount varies with each plan.  Common deductible amounts are $0, $200, $500 – as a general rule, the more expensive you monthly insurance premium is, the lower your deductible is.  All medical service expenses are applied to your deductible until it is satisfied.  For example, if you have a $200 deductible, you are responsible for the first $200 of any and all medical care per calendar year.

This means if you go to the doctor and the office visit is $80, you owe $80 at the time of service and are left with $120 to satisfy your deductible.  Then let’s say you get two massages at $60 each.  You owe the $120, but after the second massage your insurance coverage begins.