Know your health insurance plan's rules. Then follow them.

There are thousands of different health insurance plans nationwide, each one as different as the insurer or employer that sponsors them. If you don't have a clue whether you need a pre-authorization for outpatient surgery or whether your allergist is in your health plan's network of doctors, you can wind up paying significantly more money than you should for your health care.

Never rely on what you think is true about benefits or providers that are covered under your plan — even if they are stated in your most recent benefits handbook. Always double-check whether the benefits, services, or providers you need are covered under your plan before you receive treatment. Do this by calling your plan's customer-service department. Then follow through by obtaining any necessary authorizations or by scheduling treatment with a doctor within your insurer's network of providers.

Remember, if you don't follow the rules, your insurer can deny your claim and you'll wind up getting stuck with the bill.