GET SCREENED: February is #NationalCancerPreventionMonth

Because of preventive cancer screenings, Americans have enjoyed 12 million more years of life to live, one study estimates. Some of those ‘bonus’ years could be yours…if you catch cancer early through recommended preventive screenings.

Did you know? Your Health Plan covers recommended preventive screenings at 100% when you use an in-network provider. For example, these common screening tests are recommended by the US Preventive Services Task Force:

  • Breast cancer: Women aged 50-74 with average risk should get screening mammograms every two years; women with a higher risk may start earlier.
  • Colon cancer: Adults aged 45 to 75 should get regular screenings; ask your doctor if you should continue after 75. There are several screening options, including stool tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy).
  • Cervical cancer: Women should start getting Pap tests at 21; women aged 30-65 may have a Pap test or HPV test; women over 65 should discuss continued tests with their doctor.
  • Lung cancer: Adults who smoked an average of one pack a day for 20 years (or the equivalent), and adults aged 50-80 who smoke now or have quit within the past 15 years, should have a yearly low-dose CT scan.

Make an appointment for an annual exam (also covered at 100% at an in-network provider) and discuss which cancer screening tests are right for you, based on your gender, age and family history. Who knows? That appointment could add years to your life.

OPEN WIDE: The Mouth Is a Window to Your Health

One good reason to get regular dental checkups has nothing to do with your teeth. Your dentist can detect signs of chronic conditions at an early stage when they are most treatable. More than 90% of diseases that affect the whole body have oral symptoms, including these:

  • Diabetes
  • Leukemia
  • Oral cancer
  • Pancreatic cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Kidney disease

Another good reason to get regular dental care is to prevent illness. Without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that lead to tooth decay and gum disease. If mouth bacteria spreads through your bloodstream, it can contribute to serious conditions, such as:

  • Endocarditis (infection of the inner lining of your heart)
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Pregnancy and birth complications
  • Pneumonia

Keeping your mouth healthy can help prevent chronic conditions. Practice the everyday basics for a healthy smile.

  • Have regular preventive dental checkups. For Active Employees enrolled in a Dental Plan, routine exams and cleanings are covered at 100% at an in-network provider, up to the Plan Maximum.
  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time.
  • Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste.
  • Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if bristles are splayed or worn.
  • Floss daily.
  • Use mouthwash to remove food particles left after brushing and flossing.
  • Eat a healthy diet and limit sugary food and drinks.
  • Avoid tobacco use.

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CHOOSING A DOCTOR: How to Find an In-Network Provider

Your Health Plan may require you to use an in-network provider, or it may be an option that will save you money and help your care team work together efficiently.

Here are some tips when searching for an in-network provider.

  1. Choose a doctor that’s right for you. For example, internal medicine providers typically work with adults; family practitioners see patients of all ages, OB/GYN providers specialize in women’s health, and pediatricians work with children.
  2. Think about your preferences. Consider the office location, appointment hours, gender of the provider, and languages spoken—include those that matter to you in your search criteria.
  3. Is telehealth important to you? If so, be sure to search for a provider that offers telehealth services as an option, in addition to in-office visits.

For easy access to your Medial Plan carrier’s website:

  • Go to sdtrust.com. Click on “current Plan Year information,” then choose your bargaining group and status. Or click on the “talk bubble” in the top right corner of website for contact information for all of the Trust’s Plan carriers.
  • Then simply click on your carrier’s website, where you can search for an in-network provider.

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