[header] How to avoid surprise medical bills [title] Know your deductible and other plan details. [step] You can log into your insurer's website or call their helpline to find out about your plan's specifics. More plans today have a high deductible, which is the amount of money you must pay in medical expenses before insurance covers costs. 
[substeps] Having a high deductible reduces monthly premiums, but remember you won't be covered until you meet the deductible out of pocket. In addition, premiums don't count toward your deductible.