Everyone needs to plan for future medical costs. However, those most at risk for higher healthcare costs include:

• People with growing families. Prenatal care, childhood immunizations, well-child visits, and the common ailments of childhood all contribute to higher costs of medical care.
• People with chronic illnesses, like asthma or high blood pressure. Chronic illnesses often require ongoing medications, more frequent health screenings, and other regular care to help control the condition. But that’s not where the big costs lie. People who don’t manage their chronic diseases may end up with serious complications requiring hospitalization or high-cost treatments.
• People with high health risks. If you have an unhealthy lifestyle because you smoke or don’t get enough exercise, you have a greater risk for high healthcare costs over time.
• Older adults. People approaching age 50 or older should consult their physician to discuss increased health risks and how to address them.