In just a few weeks, a fresh new decade will begin. Are you rushing around trying to accomplish all your to-do items before year-end? Or relaxing in preparation for a fresh start in 2020?
Either way, getting a physical should be on your must-do list. It’s one of the most important things you can do for yourself. By detecting health problems early, it can even save your life. Keep reading for 5 more reasons to schedule your physical at the ParTNers Health & Wellness Center or with your primary care physician.
1. It’s FREE!
Preventive care services, like your annual physical and age-appropriate screenings, are 100% covered by your state health plan. No out-of-pocket costs!
2. A physical helps gauge your risk for health problems.
When you get a physical, your provider will review your (and your family’s) health history. Depending on your risk factors and age, you may need blood work or a preventive screening, like a mammogram or a colonoscopy, to give your provider a closer look.
3. It’s a great starting point for setting goals.
An annual physical is the perfect way to start a conversation with your provider about where you are and where you want to be. It’s an opportunity to discuss any concerns, ask questions and get feedback on your daily lifestyle habits. If you both decide it’s time to strive for a goal, like managing your diabetes, losing a few pounds or starting an exercise routine, you can take advantage of free coaching from ParTNers Center onsite wellness coaches.
4. Screening recommendations change.
You may think you’re up to date on preventive screenings, but recommendations can — and do — change. For example, there are new guidelines for lung cancer screening that you might need to discuss with your provider if you smoke or have ever smoked. You should also make sure you’re current on vaccinations, including pneumonia, shingles and any other boosters your provider recommends.
5. You can earn cash incentives.
Your 2020 plan year wellness incentives include a new cash incentive for getting a physical. You earn cash incentives when you get:
An annual physical
A biometric screening
Certain preventive screenings recommended by your provider (mammogram, colonoscopy, pap smear, etc.)
Disease and lifestyle coaching
Call to schedule your annual physical and other screenings now. Our ParTNers Center nurse practitioners are here to help.
Don’t forget to take your health risk assessment at go.activehealth.com/wellnesstn after January 1, 2020 to earn your 2020 incentives.
Preventive care checklist
Enter your gender and age and download this handy preventive care checklist from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Then, print the list and take it to your annual physical to start a conversation with your provider.