- A Wellness Checkup or Physical
Getting a physical checkup at least once a year is a great way to make sure you’re healthy. If possible, going several times throughout the year is even better. These wellness checkups provide you with an opportunity to ask your doctor questions, while also giving your doctor a chance to monitor any serious medical issues that could arise.
- Eye Exam
It’s remarkable how quick we are to buy expensive, high-definition televisions while never giving a second thought to improving the “resolution” of our eyes. While someone who has no history of vision problems and 20/20 eyesight can probably go two years without an appointment, if you wear corrective lenses, have a known eye problem or have a history of diabetes and high blood pressure, yearly examinations are recommended. These appointments ensure that you have the most up-to-date prescription and can curb further vision loss or impairment in some cases.
- Dentist Appointment
It doesn’t sound intuitive, but dental health affects more than you think. For kids, being able to comfortably chew and eat your food is critical to early development. Even for adults, taking care of your pearly whites can save you a lot of pain and cash in the long run. Scheduling at least two teeth cleanings a year is recommended.
- Flu Shot
Most people think of the flu as just a “bad cold,” but for the young, the elderly or those with weakened immune systems, it can be fatal. The flu vaccine is recommended for anyone over the age of six months, and it typically offers protection from 90% of flu strains. Getting an annual flu shot is highly advised, as it will not only protect you from the flu but also all those around you.
- Skin Exam
One of the most common and least dangerous forms of cancer is melanoma. If caught early enough, skin cancer is actually 100% curable. That alone is enough of a reason to schedule regular skin exams. While most sunburns or moles won’t lead to skin cancer, you should never hesitate to schedule an appointment with your dermatologist to check up on a skin abnormality.
- Mammogram
The fight against breast cancer is one that we can win, as long as we make it known what steps need to be taken to catch breast cancer early. While you should regularly check your breasts for abnormal lumps (even men should check periodically), scheduling a clinical breast exam is extremely important.
While this isn’t a comprehensive list of all doctor appointments you could set this year, this list is a good starting point to make sure you stay healthy longer. Plus, most of these preventative health costs are covered with even the most basic of plans through Nevada Health Link. So don’t wait. Take control of your health and contact your doctor today.
If you currently don’t have health insurance, Nevada Health Link is here to help. As part of a Qualifying Life Event (QLE), you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). In other words, certain life events or situations, such as job loss, income change, marriage/divorce or birth/adoption of a child, may allow you to enroll in an insurance plan through Nevada Health Link outside of the annual open enrollment period.
All of our health plans exist to reduce the costs of health insurance and make sure you are covered. We’re always to help, so don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance.
