Routine health visits, often called check-ups or well-visits, are a great time to discuss your health concerns with your healthcare provider. You can talk to them about anything, but here are some topics that are generally covered:
- Family Planning
Do you want to have a child in the next year? If "no", discuss your goals and different birth control options. If “yes”, discuss how to prepare.
- Mental Health
If you are struggling with any mental or emotional health issues, talk to your health care provider. They can complete a screening and, if necessary, determine a treatment plan. If you have diagnosed depression you should have it treated.
- Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Body Mass Index (BMI) is an estimate of body fat based on height and weight. Your health care provider can calculate yours. Then, talk about the recommended amount of physical activity and how to consume a balanced diet.
- The Medications and Supplements You’re Taking
Tell your provider as much as you can about the prescription and over-the-counter medications and supplements you take. Some don’t interact well together, and some can cause birth defects. Your health care provider can help you weigh the risks and benefits of each one.
- Healthy Relationships
No matter the type of relationship, they should all be healthy. If you’re experiencing bullying, violence, or abuse of any type, talk to your health care provider.
- Substance Use
Talk about the substances you use. Do you drink? Use tobacco or marijuana? Take recreational drugs? It’s important to discuss what you’re using and how often with your healthcare provider. They can help you weigh risks and benefits.
- Chronic Conditions
If you have a chronic disease, it’s important that you discuss it with your healthcare provider. Be sure to inform them about your illness, symptoms, and prescriptions. They can help you manage your condition.
- Vaccinations
Get up to date with vaccines like the flu, human papillomavirus (HPV), tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella, and more.
- Health Screenings
Get screened! Have your blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and triglycerides checked. Get screened for STDs as well as breast and cervical cancer.
- Environmental Hazards
Are you exposed to any chemical or physical hazards at home or at work? Talk to your provider about the health impacts of these different exposures.
It is an Affordable Care Act (ACA) requirement that all insurance plans cover the following ten essential benefits. However, the amount of coverage may vary by insurance provider. Be sure to review your plan to determine your specific coverage amounts. Essential benefits include:
- Outpatient care (care not received in a hospital)
- Emergency services (ambulance and ER)
- Hospitalization
- Maternity and newborn care
- Pediatric care
- Behavioral health treatment (mental health and substance use disorder)
- Prescription drugs
- Laboratory services
- Prevention services (health screenings)
- Chronic disease management
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