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Seeing a primary care provider means you'll have a go-to person for your health. Make sure to give them a call every year or two.
Even if you feel fine, regular checkups—at least every 2 years—are important to maintaining good health. Preventive care is covered under many plans at 100 percent, which means no out-of-pocket cost to you. Even employment physicals can be covered as preventive. However, if you have pain or other symptoms, the visit could be billed as diagnostic, which is subject to copay and deductible. The doctor might order lab tests, including blood work and urinalysis. Depending on your family history, age, and other risk factors, you might be screened for cholesterol, blood-sugar levels, and sexually transmitted diseases. A colonoscopy is another common preventive procedure.
The checkup is also a good time to talk about personal risks and history. For example, if you are or have been a smoker, your doctor might recommend an aortic ultrasound, which is covered at 100 percent on most plans, but must be preapproved. Your in-network healthcare provider can request this on your behalf. Talk with your doctor if you have personal concerns, such as diet, pain, mental health, or family history. For example, mammograms are not typical for men, but if you have a family history of breast cancer, the screening might be appropriate for you.
It's not fair, but men are just more susceptible to some conditions, like back pain and heart disease. We can help you with your aches, pains, and other concerns. Your best bet is to start with your primary care provider. He or she is the gateway to your specialty care.
Benefits under your health plan may differ, so refer to your benefit booklet for information on what your specific health plan covers.
Your health plan covers preventive care services as required by state and federal law. For more information, please review the "A" and "B" rated services on the United States Preventive Services Task Force, immunizations recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and preventive care and screening recommended by the Health Resources and Services Administration. See the list on healthcare.gov.
