Even if you are healthy, it’s important to visit your primary care provider (PCP) at least once a year for a health evaluation and recommended screenings and immunizations. Many health conditions and chronic diseases can be avoided or successfully controlled if caught early. Here are a few of the most common chronic diseases.
- Well-baby exam ages 0 to 2 years (at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15 and 18 months)
- Annual well-child exam 2 to 21 years
- Developmental screening and assessment
- Dental analysis and referral
- Vision assessment
- Recommended vaccinations for flu, diphtheria, mumps, measles, rotavirus, rubella, tetanus, etc. (visit cdc.gov/vaccines for a complete schedule)
- Annual flu shot
- Recommended vaccinations for pneumonia, whooping cough, tetanus, measles, shingles, etc.
- Annual physical exam/medication review
- Blood pressure and cholesterol checks
- Diabetes Screening
- Colon cancer screening (starting at age 50)
- Prostate cancer screening (for men)
- Cervical cancer screening (Pap smear for women)
- Mammogram (for women)
- Bone density testing (for postmenopausal women over age 65)
Talk with your primary care provider for specific recommendations based on your age, gender, health status, medical history, risk factors, lifestyle and family history.
Most preventive care services are covered at no charge. Check with your health plan prior to your appointment.