Preventive health care includes health services like screenings, check-ups, and patient counseling that are used to prevent illnesses, disease, and other health problems, or to detect illness at an early stage when treatment is likely to work best.

Under the Affordable Care Act (“ACA”), most health plans must cover a set of preventive services at no cost to you. This includes plans available through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

The following pages list the preventive health services that may be right for you.

Why is it important?

Getting recommended preventive services and making healthy lifestyle choices are key steps to good health and well-being.

Having a provider who knows your health needs, and whom you trust and can work with, can help you:

  • Ensure you get the preventive services that are right for you
  • Make healthy lifestyle choices
  • Improve your mental and emotional well-being
  • Reach your health and wellness goals.

Important cost tip

For plans under the ACA, there is no cost-sharing for recommended preventive services when they are delivered by a doctor or other provider in your plan’s network. Talk to your provider about what preventive services are right for you.

Where do you go for preventive care services?

It’s best for you to get routine care and recommended preventive care services from a primary care provider like your family physician. You can find primary care providers in local offices, clinics, and health centers.

Your Primary Care Provider will be the doctor, nurse practitioner, behavioral health professional, or other health care professional you see the most, and they will get to know you and help you keep track of your health over time.

What if my provider tries to charge me for preventive services?

Remember, there is no cost-sharing for preventive services only when the provider is in your plan’s network. Before your appointment, contact your insurance company to make sure that your provider is in your plan’s network.

You can also check with your provider each time you make an appointment, so you know how much you will have to pay.

How often should I seek preventive services?

You should see your provider for preventive services yearly. Your provider will do a complete physical and may draw blood for lab work and recommended screenings.

Women should also get the recommended well-woman screening yearly.