(BPT) - Rising premiums and different levels of coverage can make health care costs seem very confusing. Here are 5 simple ideas that could help you save on your health care costs.

1. Plan for medical bills. Just as you would ask a mechanic to estimate the cost of service on your car ahead of time, don't be afraid to ask providers what services will cost. Many providers will work with you to arrange a payment plan when a medical bill is not covered by your insurance, or if you are uninsured or have a high deductible. Don't be afraid to negotiate

2. Save money on prescription medications. If you are uninsured, or your insurance doesn't cover certain prescription medications, an Inside Rx card may be an option for you. The card is not insurance but is a free discount prescription card that provides deep savings on select brand and generic medications. There's even a card for your pet's prescriptions. Next time you're picking up a prescription, download the card on your phone and show it to your pharmacist to see if you can benefit and how much you could save. Eligibility requirements and a complete list of the medications offered through the program can be found at InsideRx.com.

3. Shop around. You could save money by comparing the price of medications in pharmacies near you. Inside Rx compares the prices in locations near you to help find the best deal for your medication at a pharmacy close to you if you are using the discount card. Also, discuss with your doctor if switching to a generic medication is an option for you; this could save you money when purchasing your medications.

4. Take advantage of wellness plans. If your employer offers a wellness plan, participate. You may even get perks such as partial coverage of gym memberships. Talk to your employer's human resources office about health savings or other plans that may be available to save you out-of-pocket costs. Don't be afraid to ask questions to make sure you understand how the plans work.

5. Don't delay treatment. If you've been diagnosed with a condition that requires treatment or medication, don't put off starting your treatment. Talk with your doctor about any financial concerns so together you can create a plan to improve your health at a cost you can afford.