A simple test may save your health
Many preventive-care exams and screenings can detect the likelihood of developing an illness even before symptoms start. Early detection may allow for more treatment options and a chance for living a longer, healthier life.
To promote the use of preventive care and healthy lifestyles, TVA employees and non-Medicare retirees enrolled in a TVA medical plan have a preventive-care benefit. You don’t have to pay a deductible or co-insurance with this benefit, and you and your dependents age 6 and older can have routine physical-exam expenses and preventive services paid up to $500 per person, per year. However, you are responsible for paying any preventive-care charges that exceed $500.
The type and frequency of preventive care you need changes throughout your life. Some recommended guidelines, for example, include the following:
- A female age 18-39 should have a pap-smear test every 1-3 years if sexually active or over age 21.
- A female age 40-49 should have an annual clinical breast exam and mammogram.
- A male age 50-64 should discuss with his doctor having a PSA-prostate and rectal exam.
- Anyone age 65 or older should have a pneumonia vaccination.
Talk to your doctor about the preventive care you need at your stage in life and make your appointment.
The TVA medical plans also cover children under the age of 6 by paying 100 percent for well-baby exams as follows:
- Before age 1: Four exams, in addition to the initial physician exam in the hospital
- Between age 1 and before age 2: Two exams
- Between age 2 and before age 6: 1 exam per year.
Ask your pediatrician when is the right time for your child to receive the shots that can provide protection from disease and illness.
And, don’t forget the TVA dental plans pay 100 percent for preventive care, such as routine oral exams twice a year and cleanings. Some diseases and conditions can be linked to oral health.