Choose a family doctor. Regular contact with a primary care physician (PCP) is more cost-effective than seeking care from several specialists.

Use specialists appropriately. Ask your PCP what he or she can and can't do, and rely on your PCP for specialty referral suggestions. Be prepared for your specialist consultation - records and tests should be sent in advance.

Use home health care remedies whenever possible. Many conditions like colds, flu, or sprains are time-limited and can be managed through appropriate self-care.

Control your drug costs. Don't expect a prescription every time you visit your doctor. If a prescription is required, ask your doctor if there is less expensive or a generic alternative to your prescription (medications advertised on TV and in magazines, although usually effective, are often the most expensive).

Avoid unnecessary medical tests. Ask your doctor what the proposed tests are for, if they are necessary, and their cost.

Use emergency services only for emergencies. Modern emergency services are invaluable in trauma or life-threatening situations, but are very expensive and inefficient for routine care. Ask yourself if this is a true emergency. If not, seek care through your PCP or use Urgent Care when available.

If it is safe, wait. Sometimes physicians are afraid patients will think they are not doing their best if they don't take immediate action. Ask if it is safe to wait. Avoid hospitalization unless it is clearly necessary.

Get preventative care. Immunizations, health checks, PAP tests, mammograms, etc., as recommended in your Valley Health Plan guide, are the most effective ways to avoid a costly illness. Get your flu shot.

Stay healthy. Exercise regularly and maintain good nutrition. Ask your PCP for help with life-style habits - smoking, drinking, weight gain.

Learn as much as you can about your medical needs. Ask your doctor for information about your condition. By doing your own research, you may discover more options and be better prepared to decide with your doctor which course of treatment is best for you.