1. Make sure the provider you see is in-network/contracted with your insurance company. Contracts hold provider responsible for billing insurance before they bill you, and for not balance-billing. 2. Read everything you can about balance billing, what it is, and what it isn't. 3. Ask the provider to do an insurance estimate before getting treatment. 4. Get itemized receipts from providers when you pay. 5. Minimize repeat appointments (maximize time with provider) if possible; fewer appointments equals lower costs.