Your future self will thank you.
Health isn’t something we only think about when something goes wrong—it’s something we build every day, quietly and intentionally. That’s why preventive care is one of the most powerful tools in your health insurance plan. And here’s the best part: it’s completely free with most Marketplace and employer-based plans in the U.S.
Every year, millions of people pay premiums for coverage—but overlook the zero-cost benefits available to them. Preventive services are the unsung heroes of your health coverage, designed to catch problems early, reduce risk, and keep you living your best life. Whether you’re trying to stay on top of your health, protect your family, or manage a chronic condition, these services are your starting line—not your safety net.
What Exactly Are Preventive Benefits?
Preventive benefits are health services that help detect or prevent illness before symptoms appear. Under the Affordable Care Act, most health plans must cover a wide range of preventive services at no cost to you, even if you haven’t met your deductible yet.
These include:
🩺 Annual Wellness Visits
Your yearly checkup is a vital opportunity to track your overall health, talk about concerns, and create a personalized plan for the future.
💉 Vaccinations & Immunizations
From flu shots to COVID-19 boosters, childhood immunizations to travel vaccines—staying up to date helps protect you and your community.
🧪 Essential Screenings
Mammograms, cholesterol checks, diabetes screenings, HIV and STI testing, colorectal exams, and more. These tests save lives when conditions are caught early.
👶 Maternal & Child Health Services
Prenatal visits, breastfeeding support, newborn screenings, and well-child visits are all covered. Families can build healthy foundations—right from the start.
🧠 Mental Health & Behavioral Counseling
Screenings for depression, anxiety, substance use, and behavioral disorders help bring mental health into the center of your care.
🗣️ Lifestyle & Risk Reduction Counseling
Need help quitting tobacco, managing your weight, or making healthier dietary choices? Free sessions are often part of your plan.
Why It’s So Important to Take Advantage
Preventive care isn’t just about avoiding disease—it’s about understanding your body, staying empowered, and making informed decisions. Early detection of conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or cancer can completely change your outcome. And managing small risks now prevents major health issues—and medical costs—down the road.
But the benefit is more than physical. There’s peace of mind in knowing you’re doing everything you can to take care of yourself and those you love. You’re not just using a health plan—you’re actively building a healthier life.
What to Do Next
✅ Call your doctor’s office. Schedule your annual wellness visit or ask about screenings that are right for your age and history.
✅ Check your insurance benefits. Your plan may offer even more no-cost services than required. It’s worth knowing what’s available.
✅ Get ahead of the game. Don’t wait for a health scare to take action. Preventive care is proactive care—and it’s already included in the plan you pay for.
✅ Encourage others. Remind friends and family to take advantage of their preventive benefits. Health is something we build together.
Prevention is Power
We spend our days working, planning, and taking care of others—but how often do we pause to invest in our own health? Preventive care is one of the smartest ways to make that investment. It’s built into your coverage. It costs you nothing. And its impact can last a lifetime.
Stay strong. Stay informed. Stay ahead.
Your future self—and your loved ones—will thank you.