You’ve probably heard the old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” What exactly is preventative care? Preventative health care is routine care aimed at preventing or detecting illnesses before they become serious. It differs from diagnostic care which investigates a specific symptom or an existing illness. Preventative care is performed while you are healthy, to monitor potential issues so that they can be caught early. 

One key component of a preventative care plan includes an annual wellness check-up with your primary care physician. Your doctor might perform screenings such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. They might also recommend mammograms or colonoscopies based on your sex and age. Vaccinations are another key preventative tool—ask what immunizations you may need based on your age, medical history, and lifestyle. Many care plans also have a mental health component to check for signs of depression or anxiety. 

Preventative care is very important to avert and manage chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. And most health insurance plans are required to cover 100% of costs associated with preventative services. So, stay on top of your health and stop illness before it starts.