HSA vs Cash: Pay Now or Reimburse Later? (2026)

Back surgery includes procedures like spinal fusion, laminectomy, or disc replacement. It is one of the most expensive common surgeries, with high out-of-pocket costs.

Hip replacement surgery replaces damaged hip joint surfaces with prosthetic components. It is one of the most common and costly orthopedic surgeries performed in the US.

Knee surgery ranges from arthroscopic procedures to total knee replacement. Even after insurance, out-of-pocket costs can reach your annual deductible maximum or higher.

Fertility treatments including IVF, IUI, and related procedures can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Most insurance plans offer limited or no coverage for these procedures.

Childbirth costs include prenatal care, hospital stay, delivery (vaginal or C-section), and postnatal follow-up. Even with insurance, the out-of-pocket bill is typically thousands.

Hearing aids are electronic devices that amplify sound for people with hearing loss. They are expensive and rarely covered fully by insurance, making them a common HSA expense.

A series of physical therapy sessions treats injuries, chronic pain, or post-surgical recovery. Most treatment plans run 6-12 weeks with 2-3 sessions per week.

A sleep study (polysomnography) diagnoses sleep disorders like sleep apnea, insomnia, and narcolepsy. Studies may be conducted in a sleep lab or at home.

Dermatology treatments for medical conditions like eczema, psoriasis, acne, or skin cancer screening. Costs vary widely based on the specific treatment needed.

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) creates detailed images of organs and soft tissues. Costs vary dramatically depending on the body part scanned and the facility.

Allergy testing identifies specific allergens through skin prick tests or blood tests. Results guide treatment plans for allergies and asthma.

Orthodontic braces straighten teeth and correct bite alignment. Treatment typically lasts 18-24 months and is a significant out-of-pocket cost even with dental insurance.

Dental implants are permanent tooth replacements that involve surgically placing a titanium post in the jawbone. They are more expensive than bridges or dentures but last decades.

Wisdom teeth extraction is one of the most common oral surgeries. Costs vary based on the complexity of the extraction and whether sedation is used.

A dental crown caps a damaged or decayed tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are one of the most common and moderately expensive dental procedures.

A root canal treats infection inside a tooth by removing the nerve and pulp. It saves the natural tooth and eliminates pain from infection or decay.

LASIK is a popular vision correction surgery that reshapes the cornea to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contacts. Most patients pay out of pocket since insurance rarely covers it.

Cataract surgery removes a clouded lens and replaces it with an artificial one. It is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the US, especially for adults over 60.

Prescription eyeglasses correct vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Costs vary widely depending on frames and lens options.

Weekly or biweekly therapy sessions with a licensed mental health professional add up to a significant annual cost, especially for those paying out-of-network rates.