As we approach the end of the year, it’s a great time to prioritize your health by scheduling important preventative exams and screenings. Preventative care is essential for early detection and management of health issues, and taking care of these exams now can help you make the most of your insurance benefits.
Here’s why booking your appointments before year-end could be a great decision for your health and your wallet:
1. Maximize Your Insurance Benefits If you’ve met your deductible or are close to it, this is the perfect time to take advantage of your insurance benefits. Once your deductible is met, your insurance may cover more of the costs for services, meaning lower out-of-pocket expenses. Preventative exams, like annual check-ups and screenings, are often covered by insurance, especially when your deductible is met. Waiting until next year could mean paying more if your deductible resets.
2. Prioritize Early Detection Preventative care focuses on catching potential health issues early, which is often the key to successful treatment. Common screenings like mammograms for breast cancer and colonoscopies for colon cancer are designed to detect issues before they become serious. Many diseases, such as cancer, can progress silently without symptoms, so keeping up with recommended screenings is one of the best ways to stay proactive about your health. • Breast Cancer Screening: For women over 40, annual mammograms can significantly reduce the risk of advanced breast cancer. Speak with your provider about when to start and how frequently to screen based on your personal health history. • Colon Cancer Screening: Starting at age 45, most adults should begin regular screening for colon cancer. Whether through a colonoscopy or other options, early detection makes a significant difference in outcomes.
3. Stay on Track with Annual Preventative Exams and Labs Preventative exams often include a general physical, lab tests to check your cholesterol, blood sugar, and other markers, and immunizations that can protect against disease. Your healthcare provider will review your medical history, lifestyle, and family history to personalize the right plan for you. These exams offer a great chance to address questions, update your provider on any new health changes, and discuss wellness goals.
4. Avoid the Year-End Rush End-of-year appointments tend to book up quickly, as many people realize the benefit of scheduling these services before their insurance resets. By scheduling now, you can secure an appointment time that fits your calendar and avoid the rush of last-minute bookings.
5. Stay Healthy Through the Holidays The holiday season can bring indulgent meals, sugary treats, and a packed social calendar, which often makes it difficult to stick to healthy habits. To help maintain your health and avoid holiday weight gain, try these simple tips: • Keep a Balanced Plate: Fill half your plate with vegetables and lean proteins, then enjoy smaller portions of high-calorie treats. This helps prevent overindulging while allowing you to still enjoy holiday foods. • Stay Active: Finding time to exercise can be challenging during the busy holiday season. Aim for at least 30 minutes of movement most days, even if it’s a brisk walk or a quick workout at home. • Get Enough Sleep: Lack of sleep can affect your metabolism and increase cravings for unhealthy foods. Try to keep a consistent sleep schedule, even with holiday events. • Limit Alcohol and Sugary Drinks: These can add a lot of empty calories. Opt for water or low-calorie alternatives, or try alternating alcoholic beverages with water to stay hydrated.
6. Invest in Your Long-Term Health Regular screenings and preventative care appointments don’t just help for now—they set a foundation for your long-term health. Preventative care helps you monitor changes in your health, catch any new concerns early, and receive personalized guidance from your provider to help you reach your health goals.
How to Get Started If you haven’t already scheduled your year-end preventative appointments, now is a great time to reach out to our team. We’re here to guide you on what screenings are due and help find the right appointments to fit your schedule. Let’s work together to ensure a healthier tomorrow! Contact Olive Health via phone or text at 813-417-4767 to request an appointment.
Comments