What is the difference between a copay and a deductible?

A copay and a deductible are two different kinds of costs in a health insurance plan.

A copay is the amount you pay for each health care service, such as a doctor's appointment or a prescription. It is usually a set amount.

A deductible is the amount you pay for your medical care before your health insurance plan begins to pay its share. Once you have met your deductible, your plan starts paying part of your covered costs.

The National Cancer Institute suggests learning these amounts when your care begins so you are not surprised by them. It also helps to ask whether copays are due up front and how much they are. If any of this feels confusing, you are not alone — a hospital social worker or your plan's benefits coordinator can walk you through your specific plan.