What are 'out-of-pocket costs' in healthcare?

Out-of-pocket costs in healthcare refer to expenses that are not reimbursed by insurance. This includes any medical expenses that a patient must pay from their own financial resources. These costs can encompass copayments, deductibles, and coinsurance payments for medical services that the patient receives, as well as any other costs that the insurance plan does not cover.

Understanding out-of-pocket costs is crucial for patients as they can significantly impact overall healthcare expenses. It’s important for individuals to be aware of these costs, as they can vary widely depending on the type of insurance coverage, the network of healthcare providers used, and the specific medical services received.