What expenses count towards the deductible? When you’re trying to meet your deductible, certain health care costs will be excluded. Premiums and copays generally don’t count, but you should check the details of your plan. As mentioned, usually the cost of certain preventive services and benefits (like an annual physical exam) do not count towards the deductible either, because they are covered in full by health insurance. (They’re considered an essential health benefit, so you can get them for free before you even meet the deductible.) Prescription drugs are also typically covered even if you haven’t met the deductible. However, certain plans may require a separate deductible for prescription drugs, before insurance helps to shoulder the costs.