Some people think that they can’t afford to go to the doctor. But regular health check-ups – especially if you have risk factors for cardiovascular disease – can save you money in the long run.
Don’t just take our word for it. According to the director of the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, “preventive services can both help prevent illness and identify health problems early, when clinical interventions are most beneficial. Preventive services include screenings, tests, checkups, patient counseling, and vaccines to help define risks for, prevent, or recognize diseases and other potential health problems.”
According to Web MD, here are some checks and tests you shouldn’t miss.
Routine Physical Exam
During a routine physical exam, a doctor will record your weight, height, body mass index, and vital signs (such as pulse and blood pressure). They will review your family history, ask about your lifestyle, and listen to your heart and lungs.
Do you need to have a physical examination every year? That depends on your age, general health, and whether you have risk factors for any certain diseases or types of health problems.
Cholesterol
High cholesterol can lead to heart disease and stroke. Your doctor will likely recommend that you check your cholesterol more often if you’re an older adult, male, overweight, or have a family history of heart disease, high cholesterol, or diabetes.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Talk with your healthcare provider to see if it is time to begin colorectal cancer screenings. These tests look for cancer in the colon or rectum by checking for blood or tissue growths called polyps. These tests are given earlier if the patient has a high risk for this type of cancer.
Blood Sugar
A blood sugar test is a simple test that measures the glucose level in your blood. This routine test is most often given to those who are overweight, have high cholesterol or high blood pressure, or have had gestational diabetes.
Breast Cancer Screening (Mammogram)
Talk to your doctor to see if you should add a mammogram to your annual checkup. But, of course, go to your doctor’s office if you have the following breast symptoms:
- a lump in the breast
- swelling of all or part of the breast
- skin irritation or dimpling
- breast or nipple pain.
- nipple retraction
- nipple discharge
Cervical Cancer Screening
A Pap test checks for changes in your cervix that could become cancer. Using those same cells, the lab can screen for HPV, a virus that can lead to cervical cancer. You may need both tests or one, depending on your age and medical history.
Other Tests to Consider
Of course, there are other tests to consider. Men should be checked for prostate cancer, and everyone should be on the lookout for signs of skin cancer.
Please understand that this is not an exhaustive list. Instead, it’s to remind you of the importance of seeing a doctor regularly – especially if you have high-risk factors for chronic disease.
How to Pay for Health Screenings If You Have Risk Factors
Consider purchasing an AmeriPlan package before visiting your primary care physician. AmeriPlan is a medical discount program that allows you to save money on regular checkups, screening tests, and blood work. Here’s how it works.
You purchase a plan. Everyone is charged the same regardless of personal history, health conditions, lifestyle choices, or family history.
You schedule an appointment with an AmeriPlan healthcare provider. These individuals have agreed to provide services for a certain amount as long as the patient agrees to pay in cash at the time of the appointment.
It’s that easy.
Contact AmeriPlan today to learn more about our medical discount program.
Key Takeaways
- Routine checkups and tests can help with the early detection of some medical conditions, chronic illnesses, and diseases.
- You can get a routine checkup – even if you don’t have medical insurance.
- Health benefit plans make healthcare more affordable.