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Preventive care isn’t just smart—it’s often free.

Under the Affordable Care Act, most health insurance plans are required to cover preventive services at no cost to you. That includes annual wellness exams, recommended cancer screenings, vaccinations, and certain lab tests—without copays, deductibles, or coinsurance.

Taking advantage of these benefits is one of the most effective ways to catch potential health problems early, manage chronic conditions, and stay healthy year-round.

Common Preventive Services

Depending on your age, gender, and medical history, your doctor may recommend:

• Annual physical exams
  
  
• Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar screenings
  
  
• Cancer screenings (such as breast, cervical, colon, and skin)
  
  
• Mental health check-ins and depression screenings
  
  
• Vaccinations, including MMR, flu, and COVID-19 boosters
  
  

Many of these services can be completed in a single visit, with quick access to lab results for early intervention when needed.

Who Should Get Screened?

Preventive care is recommended for people of all ages—but especially:

• Adults who haven’t had a check-up in over a year
  
  
• Children and teens preparing for school or sports
  
  
• People with family histories of heart disease, diabetes, or cancer
  
  
• Anyone managing long-term stress, fatigue, or changes in weight or sleep
  
  

Understanding Insurance Coverage

Most major insurance providers—including Medicare, Medicaid, and private plans—cover a wide range of preventive services. If you’re unsure what’s included in your plan, call your insurance company or check your benefits summary online.

If you’re uninsured or underinsured, there may be local clinics or public health programs that offer low-cost screenings or health fairs throughout the year.

A Good Time to Act

Late summer and back-to-school season is an ideal time to:

• Catch up on routine screenings
  
  
• Check immunization records for your family
  
  
• Address any lingering health concerns before fall
  
  
• Reassess mental health, stress, or lifestyle goals after a busy season
  
  

Bottom line: Preventive care helps you stay ahead of illness, manage health risks, and make informed choices for your long-term wellness. If it’s been a while since your last check-up, this could be the nudge you need to schedule it.