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Routine visits to the doctor may uncover a host of health concerns and save you from serious complications, but it's when you come to your doctor with a list of problems that the visit may not be free at all.

For example if you are 50 and ready for a recommended screening colonoscopy it would be free. But if you suspect a problem and have symptoms the exam becomes diagnostic, in other words it's used to diagnose a problem and is not covered as a free test.

It's a fine line that leaves doctors with discretion over how and when to treat your concerns.

Columbia OB/GYN Dr. Karen Thies sees women who come in for their yearly pap test but also bring in their "problem list."

“If a lady comes and sees me for a well-woman exam and she’s having depression and anxiety problems, I don’t code out depression and anxiety,” Theis said. “I’ll put it in my note, and I’ll know what I’m treating her for and I’ll prescribe medicine, but I won’t charge her for any additional depression and anxiety exam.” 

But not every doctor follows the same routine. 

“Some physicians would argue that they don’t practice that way,” she said. “They do that screening exam and if they want to bring a problem list, they’re going to bring the patient back. You actually have to bring them back at least 48 hours after that visit to be able to charge them for a problem list.”

There are some exceptions for the free screening test.

You may be required to use an in network provider.

You won't be covered if your insurance plan was "grandfathered" and is exempt from the new law and rules vary for some Medicare advantage plans. 

If you get a  bill and are confused about what you were charged..  A representative from blue cross/blue shield tells me you can call the number on your insurance card or consider filing an appeal.

But even with the new law  Dr. Thies says  the promise of a free visit  isn't enough to get some people to keep up with critical screening tests. 

She says as the price of gas goes up more people decide it's not worth the cost to keep their appointments.

How important are screening tests to you?

Are you skipping appointments with your doctor to save on gas money?