Preventive care refers to the proactive measures taken to prevent illnesses, diseases, and other health issues before they occur. This type of care focuses on keeping people healthy and well. It emphasizes finding and treating health problems early.

People often refer to preventive care as an annual physical. Annual exams are for all ages, from newborns through geriatric ages.

What To Expect at a Physical Exam?

An annual physical exam is a routine medical check-up that typically occurs once a year. Your Primary Care Provider (PCP) typically performs this exam. They specialist in Internal Medicine, treating the body as a whole.

During this exam, a healthcare provider assesses your overall health and well-being including:

  • Heart Rate
  • Pulse Ox
  • Blood Pressure
  • Weight
  • Health Concerns
  • Order Blood Work
  • Preventative Screenings when needed
  • Lungs
  • Ear, Nose, and Throat exam
  • General Appearance
  • Health History
  • Reflexes
  • Abdominal assessment
  • Look Over Head and Neck
  • Check Your Eyes
  • Vaccines
  • Additional assessments based on gender or as needed

What Are Preventive Screenings?

Preventive screenings are medical tests done on people who do not show any signs of a disease.

The main goal of these screenings is to find health problems early. This helps prevent them from becoming more serious.

By identifying problems at an early stage, preventative screenings can lead to timely intervention and more effective treatment outcomes.

1. Cancer Screenings: Such as mammograms for breast cancer, Pap tests for cervical cancer, colonoscopies for colorectal cancer, and prostate exams for prostate cancer.

2. Cardiovascular Screenings: These may include cholesterol checks, blood pressure measurements, and glucose tests to assess the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

3. Health Risk Assessments: These screenings evaluate lifestyle factors and family history to determine an individual’s risk for various diseases.

4. Immunizations: While not a screening in the traditional sense, vaccinations help prevent diseases and are an essential part of preventive health care.

The Importance of Preventive Care?

Preventative care is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.

It involves measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries rather than treating them after they occur. Here are some key reasons why it is important:

  • Early detection of health issues
  • Investing in preventative care can save money in the long run.
  • Treating health issues before they become severe often results in lower medical costs.
  • By preventing diseases, individuals can maintain better health, leading to a more active and fulfilling life.
  • Reduction in healthcare strain
  • Education on healthy lifestyle choices, empowering individuals to take charge of their health.
  • Prioritizing preventative care encourages a proactive approach to health, helping individuals lead healthier and longer lives.

Is Preventive Care Covered By Insurance?

Yes, preventive care is typically covered by insurance, especially under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) for most health plans.

This means that many preventive services, like annual check-ups, vaccinations, and some screenings, may be free for you. This is true if they are done by an in-network provider.

However, coverage can change based on your insurance plan. It is a good idea to check with your insurance provider. This will help you understand which preventative services the plan covers and whether you need to pay any costs.

Prioritizing preventive care can help you catch potential health issues early and maintain your overall well-being.