FROM THE EDITORS

New series focuses on saving money on your health care costs

From the Editors

With health care costs climbing, you're faced with the day-to-day reality of how to make the most of your health care dollars.

As someone who values reliable health information, you'll find even more value in Mayo Clinic Health Letter in the coming months. That's because we're offering you a series of articles on what you can do to save money on your health care needs.

The series is called Stretching Your Health Care Dollars. Each article can be easily identified by this symbol:

Our first article, in the May issue, focuses on appropriate use of emergency department services. We'll share pointers on how to avoid costly trips to the emergency department, as many medical needs can be handled in a different health care setting for a fraction of the cost.

In coming months, we're planning articles on topics such as:

• The value of having a primary care doctor
• Keeping the costs associated with end-of-life care under control
• Getting the most out of dollars spent on your prescription drugs

As a subscriber to Mayo Clinic Health Letter, we know you value good health and sound advice. Our goal is to make Mayo Clinic Health Letter an investment that pays off — not only for your own well-being but also for the well-being of your pocketbook.