The beginning of the year is an excellent time to schedule your annual wellness checkup (also sometimes called a “physical” or “well visit”). But if you’re feeling good and nothing seems wrong, do you really need to make an appointment?
The answer is a resounding YES! But why? The answer may surprise you.
Here are 3 things you probably didn’t know about annual checkups.
1. Your annual checkup may include other preventive services at no charge to you.
You may already know that your health plan covers your annual checkup, but did you know that other preventive services are also covered? This may include:*
- Blood pressure screening
- Depression screening
- Diabetes (Type 2) screening
- Obesity screening and counseling
- Other screenings for individuals at certain ages and at higher risk, including lung cancer screening and cholesterol screening
By scheduling an annual checkup, even when you’re feeling good, you are allowing your primary care provider to screen (or test) for potential diseases and illnesses before they grow into bigger, more serious problems.
2. You may be due for a vaccination or booster.
That’s right…shots aren’t just for babies and school-aged kids! Depending on your age, you may need a booster or vaccine to help protect you from preventable illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. The CDC also recommends the HPV vaccination for everyone through age 26 years if not vaccinated when younger. And if you are a parent or caregiver, you should be helping your child should stay on track with their recommended vaccines. The best way to protect yourself from a disease is by getting a vaccination, and a great time to make sure that you/your child are caught up and on schedule is during an annual checkup.
3. Your PCP can connect you to resources and programs that can help improve your health.
During your checkup, your PCP will not only provide you with medical advice and guidance, but they can also connect you to free resources and programs to help you reach your health and wellness goals. So much support is available to you – especially as a Community First Member. Recognizing that change is necessary is a big first step – your PCP and Community First are ready to help with steps 2, 3, 4, and counting!
Ready to make an appointment? Call your PCP today. You can find their name and contact information on your Community First Member ID card. Don’t have a PCP or want to change yours? Find a network provider in our Provider Directory or request a PCP change on the secure Member Portal.
We understand that it may be difficult to make an appointment for your/your child’s checkup or get to the doctor’s office. We want to help. Community First Members may be eligible for the following at no-cost:
- Help making an appointment from a Community First Member Services Representative.
- Non-emergency medical transportation to scheduled health care appointments.
- An interpreter at your health care visit.
To learn more, including how to get these services, please visit CommunityFirstHealthPlans.com/Wellness-Checks.
*Please log in to the Member Portal or call Member Services to review what health screenings are covered under your health plan.