Health insurance is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones from the unexpected costs of illness or injury. According to the National Association of Health Underwriters, health insurance premiums are projected to increase an average of 4.5% in 2017. That’s why it’s vital to have health insurance, especially if you have a family.
Health insurance provides peace of mind in knowing that you and your family are covered in case of an unexpected illness or injury. It also allows you to access quality healthcare without risking financial ruin. According to a study by the Commonwealth Fund, people without health insurance are more likely to forgo necessary medical care, including preventive care measures like screenings and vaccines.
However, you might want to get the most out of your health insurance plan by making sure to get the tests that your plan covers. Every health insurance plan is different, but most plans include routine medical care you can take advantage of for health maintenance instead of emergency care. It means every penny you put into your health insurance is worthwhile.
Here are a few tests you can get to make the most of your health insurance every year.
Physical Exams
Physical exams are essential to maintaining your health, and most health insurance plans also cover them. During a physical exam, your doctor will check for any health problems you might have and give you advice on how to stay healthy.
Physical exams are crucial for people at risk for specific health problems. For example, if you have a family history of heart disease, you might want to get a yearly physical exam to check for early signs of the disease. Physical exams can also help you stay healthy if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Pregnant women should get a physical exam every month to ensure they’re healthy and detect potential problems.
Physical exams are also crucial for seniors. As we age, our bodies change, and we’re more likely to develop health problems. Senior citizens should get a physical exam at least once a year to check for any health issues.
People should get yearly physical exams because they’re essential to staying healthy. Physical exams can help you detect health problems early on and prevent them from worsening. They’re also a necessary part of prenatal care and senior healthcare.
MRI Scan
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are one of the most advanced and accurate diagnostic tools available. MRIs use powerful magnets to create detailed images of the body’s internal organs and tissues.
Most health insurance plans cover MRI scans, and you can use them to diagnose various conditions, including tumors, stroke, brain injuries, heart disease, and arthritis. MRIs are also used in orthopedic surgery to help doctors plan operations more precisely.
MRIs can be essential to preventive care because they detect potential problems before they worsen. They’re also crucial for diagnosing severe illnesses like cancer or neurological disorders.
Unfortunately, MRI scans can be claustrophobic for most people. If you’re uncomfortable with the MRI machine, talk to your doctor about alternative options like upright and open MRI scans. They will still give your doctor the necessary images to diagnose and treat your condition.
Blood Tests
Blood tests are another vital part of preventive care because they detect potential health problems before they become serious. Most health insurance plans cover blood tests for diagnosis and prevention.
Blood tests measure things like glucose levels, cholesterol, and triglycerides. They can also detect infection or signs of illness, such as anemia or diabetes. Regular blood tests are essential for people with chronic conditions like diabetes or high cholesterol because they help doctors monitor the progress of treatments.
Most people should get a minimum of one blood test per year. If you’re pregnant or have a chronic condition, you may need more frequent blood tests to monitor your health. Talk to your doctor about how often you should get blood tests.
Dental Checkups
Dental checkups are essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Most health insurance plans cover preventive dental care, including regular cleanings and exams.
During a dental checkup, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to look for any signs of decay or gum disease. They’ll also take x-rays to see if you have cavities or other problems beneath the surface.
Regular dental checkups help detect tooth decay early on so You can treat it before it worsens. They’re also crucial for people with braces because they allow dentists to monitor their progress and adjust as needed.
It’s recommended that adults get at least one dental checkup per year. You may need a checkup more often if you have gum disease or other dental issues. Your dentist can advise you on how often you should come for a cleaning and exam.
Regular checkups can keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent severe issues from developing.
Final Thoughts
Making sure to take advantage of the tests covered by your health insurance plan is an essential part of preventive care. Physical exams, MRIs, and blood tests can all help detect potential problems before they become serious. They’re also an invaluable part of prenatal care and senior healthcare. By getting the recommended tests every year, you can stay ahead of any health issues you may be facing and make the most out of your health insurance coverage.
