Preventive Health Care Guidelines
The following are suggested guidelines for the health patient. They are based on the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendations, American Cancer Society and other national and local recommendations. The best preventive care measure is to talk with your physician.
|
Screening* |
Routine Screening Recommendations** |
Rationale |
|
Health Maintenance Exam |
Annually |
To identify treatable problems early |
|
Mammogram |
Annually for women starting at age 40 |
Early detection of breast cancer |
|
Pap Smear |
At onset of sexual activity or age 18 (whichever comes first) and screening at least every 3 years |
Early detection of cervical cancer |
|
Digital Rectal Exam and PSA |
Annually for men 50 years of age or older |
Early detection of prostate cancer |
|
Colonoscopy |
Every 10 years starting at age 50 |
Prevention and early detection of colon cancer |
|
Fasting Lipid Panel |
Every 5 years for persons age 20 and older |
Prevention and treatment of coronary heart disease |
|
DXA Scan |
Every 2 years starting at menopause Men with risk factors as per physician’s recommendation |
Measures bone density to detect and treat osteoporosis and prevent fractures |
|
Dilated Eye Exam |
Every 2 years starting at age 40 |
Prevent vision loss and treat eye disease |
|
Vaccinations |
Tetanus-dipththeria, a booster every 10 years Flu, annually Pneumonia, initial vaccination at age 65 |
Prevent and decrease the spread of communicable diseases |
Discuss with your primary care physician: Diet, Exercise, Smoking Cessation, Injury Prevention, and Alcohol/Drug Abuse
* Check your health plan coverage for preventive health visits and screening exams.
** Discuss with your physician any family history of colon cancer, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, heart disease or other health risks which may result in more frequent screening recommendations.
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