Preventive and routine care is care that helps prevent health problems or finds them before they become serious. One of the best things you can do for your health is to use these services.
Not all health plans are the same. There are options depending upon your needs and qualifications.
Free Preventive Services
Under health reform, many health plans must cover certain preventive services at no cost to you. This means that you do not pay a co-pay, co-insurance or deductible for these services. This applies only when a network provider delivers these services.
Weight Management
We now know that being overweight or obese is an important health issue. It can lead to heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, some cancers, and many other serious health problems. Ask your doctor and your health plan about programs for people with weight problems. Some plans offer weight management classes and discounts on health club memberships and diet programs. There are also on-line support programs. Some plans may even pay you money to complete a weight management program. To find out if you are overweight, you can check your Body Mass Index (BMI).
Help to Stop Smoking
Smoking and second-hand smoke can cause cancer, heart disease, strokes, and other serious health problems. Quitting is not easy, but more and more health plans are offering services to help you. Ask your doctor and your health plan about stop-smoking classes. Ask if your plan covers prescription drugs to help you stop smoking. For help to stop smoking, you can also call California Smokers' Helpline (www.califoniasmokershelpline.org) at 1-800-662-8887.
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