A new year brings a fresh start, not just for resolutions, but for your health coverage too. For many people, January marks the reset of insurance benefits, including preventive care services that are often covered at 100% with no out-of-pocket cost.
Yet millions of Americans miss out on these benefits every year. At University Medical Center of El Paso, we want to help you understand what preventive care includes, how it differs from primary care, and how to make the most of your coverage to start the year healthier and stronger.
What Counts as Preventive Care?
Preventive services are routine care you get before you feel sick. These may include:
- Annual wellness or preventive exams
- Blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes screenings
- Cancer screenings (such as mammograms, Pap smears, or colon screenings)
- Vaccines, including flu and COVID-19
- Mental health and depression screenings
When these services are done for prevention, they are often covered at 100% by insurance.
Preventive Care vs. Primary Care
- Preventive care focuses on keeping you healthy and is usually free with insurance.
- Primary care also includes treating symptoms, managing chronic conditions, or new health concerns, which may involve copays or other costs.
If you bring up a new concern during a preventive visit, part of the visit may be billed as primary care.
Why Schedule Now?
Scheduling preventive care early in the year helps you get the most from your health insurance and your care team.
- Your benefits have reset. Many preventive services are covered at no cost, even if you haven’t met your deductible.
- Early detection matters. Screenings can find health issues before symptoms start, when treatment is often simpler and more effective.
- Appointments fill up fast. Annual exams and screenings book quickly, especially as the year goes on.
- Time for follow-up. If a screening finds something that needs attention, starting early gives you more time to plan next steps.
- Stay ahead of your health. Preventive care supports long-term wellness, not just treatment when you’re sick.
Take the First Step
Starting the year with preventive care is one of the simplest ways to protect your health. The care team at University Medical Center of El Paso is here to help you stay well all year long.
Schedule your preventive visit today and start the year healthier.
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