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Colonoscopy (every 10 years)—visual exam of the colon with a small scope Fecal occult blood testing (once a year)—exam of a stool sample, looking for traces of blood FIT-DNA testing (every three years)—exam of a stool sample, checking for blood and DNA evidence of colorectal cancer or precancerous cells Sigmoidoscopy (every five years)—visual exam of the lower one-third of the colon
This yearly preventive visit is covered at 100 percent (in-network).
Annual wellness visit:
Screening Options
Go to HealthAlliance.org/VirtualVisits to connect with a boardcertified doctor or counselor 24/7. The cost is the same as a primary care provider office visit copay.
You have different options with different screening timelines. Talk to your doctor about what’s best for your situation.
Virtual visits:
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends regular screenings from when you’re 50 to 75 years old.
Earn a $50 gift card by completing certain health activities on our checklist, which you can download from HealthAllianceMedicare.org/Perks.
Colorectal cancer screening is an important step you can take to help reduce your chances of getting cancer in your colon or rectum. This type of cancer typically develops from precancerous growths in these organs, so screening is key.
Wellness Rewards:
Take Advantage of These Perks
Getting Screened Could Save Your Life THE HEALTH ALLIANCE STAR
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VOLUME 13
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FEBRUARY 2019
FOLD LINE DO NOT PRINT HEALTH ALLIANCE MEDICARE 3310 Fields South Drive Champaign, IL 61822
Health and wellness or prevention information
The Health Alliance Star VOLUME 13
FEBRUARY 2019
MIDWEST
Osteoporosis and Lowering your Fall Risk Osteoporosis makes bones fragile and more likely to fracture. If you’ve already had a fracture or think you’re at risk, talk to your doctor about a bone density test to find out if you have osteoporosis. You can also talk to your doctor about the best ways to help lower your risk and prevent fractures. Falling could lead to broken bones or other serious injuries, so you should always let your doctor know if you experience a fall, even if it’s minor. This will help your doctor find potential reasons for your fall and will help them diagnose and treat you. Talk to your doctor about steps you can take to help lower your fall risk. Exercises, like lifting weights and standing on one foot, can help you improve your balance and strength. Eating healthy, drinking enough water and taking your meds as directed can also help prevent dizzy spells.
Another option is to take advantage of the virtual visit coverage included with your plan. You can talk to a board-certified doctor or counselor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone or secure video through HealthAlliance.org/VirtualVisits. You can be seen for more than 50 common conditions, including allergies, flu, rashes, behavioral health issues and more. The cost is the same as a primary care provider office visit copay. For routine care, it’s good to know how far in advance your doctor’s office prefers you to make appointments so you can get an appointment at a convenient time for you.
In an emergency, always go to the closest hospital or call 911.
Tips for Getting Care Quickly
If you need care unexpectedly but it’s not an emergency, call your doctor to see if you can get an appointment the same or next day. If not, there might be another provider in the office you can see instead. In most cases, it’s best to call your doctor first before going to an urgent care center because you’ll generally pay less out-of-pocket for a doctor’s office visit.
Talk to your doctor about each of these topics at your next visit. • Improving your physical and mental health • Monitoring your physical activity
• Osteoporosis and lowering your fall risk • Improving bladder control
It’s important to know how your Medicare Advantage plan works in the following areas. • Annual flu vaccine
• Getting needed care and appointments quickly • Customer service
• Healthcare quality
• Rating of health plan • Care coordination
• Rating of drug plan
• Getting needed prescription drugs