When it comes to your health, it’s never too early to start taking care of yourself. Eating healthy foods, staying active, drinking less alcohol, managing stress, and getting regular checkups are all great ways to stay on top of your health.
Think of preventive care like car maintenance. You take your car in for oil changes and inspections to keep it running smoothly and avoid costly problems later. Your body works the same way—routine checkups can help catch small issues before they turn into big ones.
What Counts as Preventive Care?
Preventive care includes services you get during your regular checkups to help you stay healthy. Most health plans cover these services at no extra cost. That means $0 out of pocket for:
- Your yearly physical exam
- Vaccinations
- Well-baby and well-child checkups
- Recommended cancer screenings (like breast, colon, prostate, lung, and cervical cancer)
- Screenings for conditions like diabetes and osteoporosis
Also Read: Is Blue Cross Blue Shield a Good Health Insurance Provider?
What Doesn’t Count as Preventive Care?
Not all tests and services fall under preventive care. Some are considered diagnostic, meaning they’re done to figure out what’s causing a specific problem or symptom.
Diagnostic Care
If you already have symptoms or a known risk, your doctor may order tests to diagnose the issue. For example, a routine mammogram is preventive. But if you find a lump and need a mammogram, that’s diagnostic—and it might not be fully covered.
Bloodwork
Some blood tests are preventive—like cholesterol checks or blood sugar tests during your annual exam. But others, like checking your vitamin D or liver function, may not be. Ask your doctor which tests are covered.
STI Testing
Certain tests for STIs (like HIV, hepatitis B or C, and syphilis) are considered preventive—but only for people in certain age groups or with specific risk factors. Be sure to ask your doctor which ones apply to you.
What to Expect at a Preventive Care Visit
Your annual checkup is usually done by your Primary Care Provider (PCP). Just make sure the doctor you choose is in your health plan’s network, or you may have to pay out of pocket.
Here’s what your checkup might include:
- Height, weight, and BMI (Body Mass Index) – Helps you see if you’re at a healthy weight.
- Heart check – Your doctor listens to your heart to spot any irregular beats or murmurs.
- Blood pressure test – Normal blood pressure is 120/80 or less. It’s good to know your numbers.
- Lung check – Your doctor will listen to your breathing for signs of asthma or other issues.
- Lab tests – Like cholesterol or blood sugar. Ask which ones are preventive and covered.
- Cancer screenings – These vary by age and risk factors.
- Vaccines – Like flu shots and other age-appropriate immunizations.
Also Read: What are the Pros and Cons of WellCare Insurance?
Getting Ready for Your Checkup
Want to make the most of your visit? Come prepared! Here’s what to bring:
- Your member ID card and photo ID
- A list of all your medications, including vitamins and supplements (or just bring the bottles in a bag)
- Details about your personal and family medical history
- Any questions, concerns, or symptoms you want to talk about
- A friend or family member if you’d like help remembering details
Pro Tip: Jot down questions or take notes on your phone. Ask your doctor for a copy of your visit summary, too.
Questions to Ask During Your Visit
General Health Questions:
- What screenings or vaccines do I need?
- When will I get my test results?
- Does my family history increase my risk for anything?
- Are there things I should change in my lifestyle?
- Do I need a follow-up? Can I get that info in writing?
- When should I come back for my next checkup?
- How can I reach you if I have questions later?
Questions About Tests and Screenings:
- When should I get a mammogram? Should I consider genetic testing?
- When do I need cervical cancer screening?
- What about colon cancer screening—what are my options?
- Should I get tested for STIs?
- Do I need a prostate exam?
- How often should I check my cholesterol and what should the numbers be?
- What’s a healthy blood pressure for me?
- Do I need diabetes screening?
- Should I get a bone density test?
- Are there any other screenings you recommend based on my age or health?
Also Read: Can an Agent Help me Enroll in the Right Plan?
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your health doesn’t have to be complicated. By staying on top of preventive care, you give yourself the best chance of catching problems early—and staying well for the long run.
