Getting the proper screenings and medical tests at the right time can help prevent many illnesses or identify diseases early. Early detection can save your life. For example, the CDC reports about 90% of colorectal cancer patients are still alive five years later if the ailment is detected early.
What's even better is that preventative care is generally available without a copayment, regardless of deductible status when a provider is in-network.
Depending on your age, gender and other risk factors, your doctor may tell you it's time for further screenings. However, for adults, preventative care generally covers screenings for:
- Alcohol misuse
- Aspirin use
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol
- Colorectal cancer
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Diet counseling
- Hepatitis B and C
- Immunizations, such as flu, HPV, shingles, whooping cough and tetanus
- Lung cancer
- Obesity
- Sexually transmitted infection
- Statin preventive medication
- Tobacco use
- Tuberculosis
Healthcare.gov says women may have access to additional preventative screenings, including:
- Birth control
- Bone density
- Breast cancer
- Breastfeeding support and counseling
- Cervical cancer screening/Pap test
- Folic acid supplements
- Gestational diabetes
- Maternal depression
- Preeclampsia
- Rh incompatibility screening
*Preventive care services often depend on age and risk factors. Depending on your health insurance, preventive care services may be covered without you having to pay a copayment, coinsurance or meet your deductible. This applies only when you use your plan's network providers. Medicaid benefits vary by state. To confirm your level of coverage for preventive care and to make sure your insurance is on your doctor's list of accepted plans, check with your insurance provider, employer or doctor's office.
