Getting preventive care is one of the best ways you can help yourself stay healthy, avoid serious illness, and improve your quality of life. It includes routine checkups, recommended vaccines, and screenings for common health issues. These services are designed to help find problems early before they become more serious or harder to treat. Here’s why you should make staying on track with your preventive care a priority, plus tips on how to get started.
It supports your long-term wellness
Preventive care helps people stay ahead of health concerns. For example, regular blood pressure and cholesterol checks can reveal signs of heart disease before symptoms appear. Screenings like mammograms and colonoscopies help detect cancer at early stages, when it’s most treatable. Vaccines protect against illnesses like the flu, COVID-19, and shingles. All of these are considered preventive care, and all play a role in keeping you and your family well.
It helps you build rapport—and a care plan—with your doctor
Preventive care also helps you build a strong relationship with your healthcare provider. It’s important to schedule an annual checkup or wellness visit with them even if you feel completely fine. That’s because these yearly visits are a chance to talk about your physical and emotional health, share any recent changes or challenges, and set goals that support your well-being. Your provider can guide you on healthy habits like eating well, staying active, managing stress, and quitting tobacco. They can also advise on what vaccines, screenings, or other care you may need.
It’s easier than you think!
Staying on top of preventive care doesn’t have to be complicated. Taking a few simple steps can help you stay on track:
- Schedule your annual checkup/wellness visit and attend it each year, even if you’re feeling fine
- Stay current with vaccines, including flu shots and other recommended immunizations based on your age and health status
- Complete routine health screenings when they are due, including checks for blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and more
- Use your phone or calendar to set reminders for upcoming appointments
- Take advantage of services included in your health plan. Many preventive services are free or low-cost.
With preventive care, the path to better health and wellness can start with just one doctor appointment. Making it a priority can help you feel your best today and lower your risk for serious health problems in the future.
