Proper care is important to everyone's health. When a patient sees their doctor, they are going to someone they trust to take care of them. However, a poll shows that many consumers think prescription drug companies play a part in determining which medications they are prescribed.

A poll by Consumer Reports reveals that nearly 70 percent of Americans taking prescription drugs feel that pharmaceutical companies play too large of a role in which medication their doctor gives. Patients are also hungry for information regarding side effects.

Director of Consumer Reports Health Ratings Center John Santa says it's good that many are concerned about medication safety.

"Patients should speak up. Discussing the risks of adverse effects with your doctor will help you prepare for those effects while increasing the chances you'll stay on the drug you need," said Santa.

The poll also found drug advertising towards consumers works. Consumer Reports says that 20 percent of patients taking a medication asked their doctor for one they saw advertised.

Some lawmakers have aimed to stop drug companies from advertising to consumers. USA Today wrote in an article last year that prescription drug advertising was a $4.3 billion segment.

With flu season right around the corner, it's time for people to begin thinking about protecting themselves against the virus.

Some people may shy away from getting the shot because they don't have the time to stop at their doctor's office. People can get the shot at the MinuteClinic located inside most CVS stores.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people get the flu shot in September or as soon as possible. The CDC notes that flu outbreaks can start as early as October.

Many health insurance companies will cover the vaccination. While it's wise for everyone to get vaccinated against the flu, the CDC recommends that pregnant women and those over the age of 50 in particular get the shot.

"The best protection against the flu is a flu shot. Even if you received the H1N1 vaccine earlier this year, you should still receive this year's 'all-in-one' seasonal flu shot," said MinuteClinic chief nurse practitioner Paulette Thabault. "Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness, so getting a flu shot is an effective way to protect both yourself and those around you."

As health insurance costs continue to rise, many employers have been creating ways to keep expenses under control. One way many companies are reducing health care costs is through consumer-driven health plans. Recent research indicates that the number of CDHPs will likely continue to increase.

Survey results released by United Benefit Advisers reveals that the number of CDHPs grew more than 18 percent in the past year.

UBA member services vice president Bill Stafford says even with health care reform, little has been done to mitigate health insurance costs.

"The trend toward employee empowerment and participation continues in 2010 when it comes to health care," said Stafford. "Employees are taking more control over health care expenditures by increasing participation in CDHPs, and they are also realizing that there are financial benefits – in addition to health benefits – of participating in wellness programs."

People who are in better health tend to get lower health insurance quotes. Programs such as CDHPs may help those who are healthy save money on health care costs as they typically don't require expensive procedures.