Top 10 preventive care services (2024)

Preventive care is a key part of meeting your health goals — as long as you know how to take advantage of your options. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the 10 most important preventive care services available in your Aetna® Medicare Advantage (MA) plan.

1. Cardiovascular disease screenings and behavioral therapy

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for adults over the age of 65, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).¹ Cardiovascular screenings check your cholesterol and other blood fat (lipid) levels. High levels of cholesterol can increase your risk for heart disease and stroke. This risk-reduction visit includes screening for high blood pressure and counseling on a healthy diet.

2. Colorectal cancer screenings and associated tests

Colorectal cancer screenings help find precancerous growths in the colon. This means they can be removed or treated at an early stage before they become cancerous, when treatment works best. A number of different types of tests can happen in a colorectal exam, including a flexible sigmoidoscopy, which is less invasive than a colonoscopy. At-home colorectal exam kits are another non-invasive option.

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3. Diabetes screenings

Your risk of diabetes comes down to three factors: DNA, behavior and age. With your Aetna® plan, you’re covered for a blood screening test for diabetes. People at risk for diabetes, who get a referral from a doctor, may be eligible for up to two diabetes screenings a year based on the results of their screening tests. If you have diabetes, you’re covered for education to help with self-management.

4. Mammogram screenings

Breast cancer is one of the deadliest cancers in the United States, according to the National Institutes of Health.² A mammogram is an X-ray that allows a specialist to examine breast tissue for any suspicious areas. Your Aetna plan covers one mammogram screening every 12 months.

5. Prostate cancer screenings

Prostate cancer is one of the most deadly and common cancers for men in the United States. Prostate cancer may be found by testing the amount of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) in your blood. Your doctor can also find prostate cancer during a digital rectal exam. Both of these tests are covered once every 12 months for all men over 50.

6. Flu shots

The flu (or influenza) is a contagious virus that is often more serious in older adults or those with preexisting conditions. So it’s important to get an annual flu shot. This is especially true for those who have chronic illness, including heart disease, lung disease, diabetes or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). You are fully covered for one flu shot each flu season.

7. Lung cancer screenings

Your Aetna Medicare plan covers annual lung cancer screenings with low-dose computed tomography (CT scan) for people who meet several criteria, including age, asymptomatic status (a person showing no signs of illness) and history of smoking. Before your first lung cancer screening, you’ll need to schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss the benefits and risks of the screening and decide whether it’s right for you.

8. Depression screenings

Depression screening tests are covered annually when they take place in a primary care setting. Your primary care physician (PCP) can provide follow-up treatment and referrals. While depression is a common challenge, it is not a disease tied specifically to aging. If you are experiencing signs of depression, contact your PCP for a visit.

9. Glaucoma tests

During a glaucoma test, your eye doctor dilates your eyes to view your optic nerves. Adults with diabetes or a family history of glaucoma are at an increased risk for developing the condition. The best way for people at high risk to protect themselves is to have regular eye exams. Aetna Medicare plans cover glaucoma tests for people at high risk once every 12 months.

10. Yearly wellness visit

Aetna Medicare plans offer a wellness visit once every 12 months to create or update a personalized prevention plan based on your current health and risk factors. The visit includes many services, such as a review of medical and family history. And routine measurements like height, weight and blood pressure and tests for any mental impairments. You’ll also get health advice and a screening schedule for appropriate preventive services.

The costs of the services described above are generally included in your plan coverage. To find out your level of coverage for care, you can check with an Aetna Member Services Advocate.

FOOTNOTES

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Underlying Cause of Death, 1999–2018. CDC WONDER Online Database. Atlanta, GA: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; 2018. Accessed January 11, 2023.
2. Howlader N, Noone AM, Krapcho M, et al. (eds). SEER Cancer Statistics Review, 1975–2018. National Cancer Institute, posted to the SEER website, April 2021.Accessed January 9, 2023.

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