Since 2011, a program called MDsave has been allowing patients to save funds by paying for services in advance. The marketplace was created to offer up-front prices for medical services, and to allow patients to price shop.

Clay County Medical Center and their subsequent locations offer these services, which can be used by patients who do not have healthcare coverage, or who may find cheaper prices than with a provider.

Other hospitals in Kansas are a part of the program; users can check fees in advance to see if they are finding the best deal for each procedure.

MDsave covers services like XRays, ultrasounds, MRI, CT scan, metabolic panels, blood count panels, and physical therapy sessions. However, tests still need to be ordered by a medical provider.

The prices also include fees, said Bryce Dolan, Marketing, Communications, and Foundation Director. He added that refunds are given if, for some reason, the procedure is not completed.

Patients may also submit the purchase to their insurance company, which may count toward a deductible, he said. Though the program is not available for Medicaid patients, anyone can purchase services that are not covered by their insurance.

“MDsave is available to anyone paying out-of-pocket and looking to save money on healthcare,” he said.

Calling it “cash and carry,” hospital board chair, Lori Penner, said the program is a great way for patients to get quality care at a reduced price, whether or not they have health insurance.

“It’s another tool in your toolbox in terms of being a consumer, I think it’s fantastic.”

Patients can go to mdsave.com/ to view varied prices against other local competitors, as well as to compare fees against national averages for each procedure.