Admittedly, Olivia Newton-John’s hit ‘80s song, “Let’s Get Physical,” wasn’t promoting the use of preventive care services, but it provided a perfect segway to the fact that accessing preventive care can not only promote better physical health, it can also save lives, reduce disabilities, and save money.

Preventive care means taking proactive measures to detect health issues early. It sounds simple, yet despite the benefits of preventive care, only 8% of people fully utilize the services available to them.

Why Aren’t More People Using It & What Can Be Done?

Preventive care is essential for maintaining good health and well-being. However, American healthcare has traditionally focused on treating, rather than preventing, disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control, a majority of deaths in America are caused by chronic conditions, such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes—all of which may be preventable when caught early. 

Yet, many employees don’t realize that a wide range of in-network preventive care services are available at no cost to them. To inspire increased use of preventive care benefits, employers need to be aware of the obstacles employees may face and address them head on.

Cost

Even for those with insurance coverage, the perception exists that getting a checkup is expensive, keeping some from seeking care. Remove this hurdle by reminding employees of the free preventive care benefits available through their company’s health plan(s). Common preventive care services may include:

• Physical exams (well-woman, well-man, well-child)
• Screenings (depression, diabetes, certain cancers)
• Vaccinations (chickenpox, coronavirus, flu, pneumonia)
• Health counseling (weight loss, smoking cessation, mental health)

Employers also benefit when preventive care is utilized. When employees reduce their risk of experiencing catastrophic health events, companies may avoid extended leaves of absence and increased costs.

Tip: To keep a preventive care visit free, it’s important for employees to know that covered preventive care services must be the visit’s primary focus. Any additional health concerns should be addressed to their doctor or specialist during a separate visit.

Fear

Preventive care took a hit during the pandemic, with many people avoiding clinics and hospitals due to the fear of exposure. As a result, preventive care visits hit an all-time low.

In addition, the apprehension of an unpleasant diagnosis can be enough to keep some from going to the doctor. Of course, avoidance may lead to worsening health outcomes so it’s crucial to talk about the merits of early diagnosis and treatment.

Tip: Remind employees of the value of early detection and intervention, when risk factors, underlying conditions, and early signs of disease can be recognized and treated. Companies that make benefits communication a priority, through targeted messaging, education, and reminders will dispel myths and bring this free benefit into the spotlight.

Proximity

For those who live in “care deserts,” which have limited clinics and hospitals nearby, it can take more time and planning to get to and from healthcare providers. Issues such as leaving work early or traveling further distances for a doctor’s visit can be a deterrent to prioritizing health.

Tip: Urge employees to take advantage of their preventive care benefits by showing them how to find local, in-network providers and encouraging them to take time off for appointments using company-paid sick time or PTO benefits.

The Takeaway

Employers can take an active role in improving their team’s relationship with health benefits. When preventive care is clearly communicated, easily accessed, and routinely used, employees and companies benefit from a culture of health and well-being within the workplace and at home.

Need help getting the word out about preventive care? We’re here for you.