Make the most of your annual checkup

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Now that you have picked your insurance plan for the year, start using your benefits — with an annual wellness exam.

“While an annual checkup is important for everyone, that’s especially true for older adults,” said Dr. J.B. Sobel, chief medical officer for Cigna Medicare. “An annual exam can help detect potential health issues early, allowing them to be addressed before they worsen.”

Here are Sobel’s tips to ensure you get the most of an annual checkup:

1. PREPARE

Write down anything you would like to talk to your health care provider about, along with questions to ask during the visit. You might want to take a family member or friend to ensure you understand everything.

2. BE OPEN AND HONEST

Resist that temptation to make things sound rosier than they are. Talk freely about any bad habits you may be developing.

3. MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

Emotional health impacts physical health. Depression is not always a natural part of aging. Tell your doctor if you are feeling sad, anxious, or hopeless.

4. MONITOR MEDICATIONS

Take your medications — including any over-the-counter drugs, vitamins or nutritional supplements — to your exam and talk with your doctor about potential problems.

5. SCHEDULE SCREENINGS AND GET VACCINES

You may need other important health screenings and vaccines, depending on your age and gender, such as colon cancer screening, bone density testing, mammogram, flu shot, or COVID-19 immunization. Talk to your provider about the screenings and vaccines you have had and those you will need in the future. 

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