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We know from the news that many Americans are spending less at the pump, at the grocery store, and just about everywhere else to cope with rising debts and a poor economic outlook. But now, it also seems that many are skipping important appointments with doctors in order to save money on health insurance costs.

According to a survey released by state insurance regulators, and addressed at the San Francisco Chronicle, nearly a quarter of Americans aren't seeing their doctor because health insurance costs are just too high.

Another 11% of respondents reported using less of their prescription medications, or lowering their dosage to make the prescription last longer.

Almost all Americans have been paying more for health insurance in the past several years due to the rising costs of both treatments and premiums. High deductibles and out-of-pocket costs too often keep the sick or injured from getting the care they need.

The result? More emergency room visits, untreated and therefore more extensive disease, earlier mortality, and higher medical debt.

Doctors recommend that everyone attend yearly checkups and follow-ups for treatment. These kinds of appointments keep sickness and injury at bay, and while they may cost you more in terms of your health insurance costs, they'll cost a whole lot less than a trip to the emergency room or long stay in the hospital.