 TITLE: Can I Get a Loan to Pay Off Medical Debt? CONTENT: To Manage Medical Debt, Be Prepared\n-----------------------------------\nThe best way to manage medical debt is to avoid it in the first place by planning ahead. Whenever possible, talk to your medical provider and insurance company to find out what your cost will be before you undergo a procedure. If the costs are more than you can easily afford, talk to your provider about ways to pay.\nOf course, you can't plan for an accident or major illness. But you can prepare for these risks by learning what your health insurance covers and choosing the medical provider that minimizes your out-of-pocket costs (such as an in-network doctor or hospital). Armed with this information, you'll be ready to make smart decisions about both your medical care and its impact on your budget. END