Preventive Screenings

Are you avoiding your annual wellness checkup to save money? You’re in luck—preventive health services are free for Altru & You with Medica members.

Preventive services consist of checkups, screenings and counseling appointments aimed at detecting health concerns before they develop. These are often available for free when delivered by a provider in your network and can prevent more costly health issues in the future.

Wellness Checks

As an Altru & You with Medica member, you can receive a free yearly biometric screening, or My BioCheck®, which will provide you with your overall health report card. My BioCheck measures cholesterol levels, diabetes risk, blood pressure and weight.

Cancer Screenings

Screenings for certain types of cancer, such as breast, cervical and colon, generally qualify as preventive care. The ideal frequency of screenings varies by age, gender and personal/family history. The following recommendations by the American Cancer Society are a great start, but talk to your healthcare provider for individual recommendations.

• Breast cancer: Early detection decreases breast cancer mortality. The American College of Radiology recommends annual mammographic screening beginning at age 40 for women of average risk. Higher-risk women should start mammographic screening earlier and may benefit from supplemental screening modalities. Altru’s Breast Center is accredited by the American College of Radiology and follows their recommendation.
• Cervical cancer: Women ages 21 to 29 should have a Pap smear every three years; women between 30 and 65 should have a Pap smear and HPV test every five years. If you opt out of HPV testing, continue to receive your Pap smear every three years.
• Colon cancer: Adults ages 45 through 75 should have regular screenings at their provider’s discretion.

Immunizations

Most immunizations are classified as preventive care because they are intended to protect your current and future health. Immunizations include everything from your yearly flu shot to vaccines required for school-bound children.

We’re Here When You Need Help

Whether you have questions about your benefits (like finding out what your plan covers or understanding how a claim was processed) or need help receiving care (like scheduling an appointment or learning how to access your medical records online), call us at 855.400.9652. We’re available, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

To get information about your benefits or care online, go to altruandyou.com.