Preventive care

Seeing your doctor every year is one of the best things you can do to take care of your health. Your Annual Wellness Visit is not like seeing your doctor when you’re sick. It’s your time with your doctor to make a plan for your health and discuss any preventive screenings you need this year. Together, you’ll make a plan for your health in the coming year. If you’re new to Medicare, this visit is called your Welcome to Medicare visit. 

Here are some of the things you talk about with your doctor during your Annual Wellness Visit: 

•    Do I need vaccines (such as flu, pneumonia, shingles, COVID, or RSV?) 
•    Do I need a colon cancer screening this year? 
•    What is my blood pressure? 
•    Am I due for a breast cancer screening? 
•    Do I need any diabetes screenings or to have my blood sugar checked? 

In addition to discussing preventive screenings, your Annual Wellness Visit is also a great opportunity to review your medications and ensure you're taking them as prescribed. Taking your medication as directed is crucial to managing your health and preventing complications, especially if you having ongoing medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease. 

Getting your Annual Wellness Visit every year is also a great way to build a relationship with your doctor. Having a relationship with your doctor may also make it easier to see them when you're sick. You'll feel more comfortable reaching out to them when you need care, and they'll be better equipped to provide personalized treatment.

Bringing up tough topics with your doctor

Some changes that come from aging can be uncomfortable to talk about. But it's important to have open and honest conversations with your doctors about your health concerns. It’s their job to help you feel your best, not judge you, so don’t worry about bringing up hard topics.

Some topics that may be difficult to discuss include:
•    Urinary incontinence: If you're experiencing problems with bladder control, don't be afraid to talk to your health care provider about it. They can help you identify the underlying cause and develop a plan to manage it.
•    Mental health: If you're feeling anxious, depressed, or isolated, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor for support. 
•    End-of-life care: It's essential to have conversations with your doctor and loved ones about your wishes for end-of-life care.

Call your primary care doctor today to schedule your Annual Wellness Visit. You can also find an in-network provider by logging in to your online member account. Once you’re logged in, click Find & Get Care from the dropdown menu and then select Find a Doctor & More.

Flu vaccine
Thinking of skipping your flu shot? Getting a flu shot won’t make you sick — getting the flu will. Take the flu seriously. Your Florida Blue Medicare plan covers a flu shot every year. Your flu shot is offered at no extra cost when you get it from a network doctor or pharmacy, or at a Florida Blue Center. Getting a flu shot is especially important for people with chronic conditions who are at high risk of serious complications from the flu.

Shingles vaccine
Shingles is a painful condition that affects the nerves and causes blisters and a rash with a burning sensation. One of the best ways to prevent shingles is with the two-dose vaccine given six months apart. Most adults age 50 years and older should get vaccinated. Ask your doctor if you need the shingles vaccine.

Pneumonia vaccine
Pneumococcal disease poses a risk of serious illness and even death in older adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends adults 65 and over get the vaccination each year.

Don’t put off this important test. Colon cancer screenings help find problems early, when they may be easier to treat. There are different types of colon cancer screenings available; ask your doctor which type of screening is right for you. Your doctor will let you know which test is best for you based on your health and family history. Some of these tests can be done in the privacy of your home and require no preparation.

Who should get a colonoscopy?

The American Cancer Society recommends people with an average risk of colorectal cancer start getting screened at age 45. 

However, some people may need to get screened earlier, including:
•    People with a family history of colorectal cancer
•    People who have already had colorectal cancer
•    People with a history of polyps
•    People with inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis

Alternatives to colonoscopies

While colonoscopies are the best way to detect issues, there are several other tests that can help detect colorectal cancer. Some of these tests include:
•    At-home colorectal cancer tests: These tests check for blood or DNA in your stool, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer. If you choose this option, you’ll need to get this test every year.
•    Flexible sigmoidoscopies: These tests use a flexible tube with a camera on the end to look at the lower part of your colon. This test typically has to be repeated every five years.

The risks of not getting a colorectal cancer screening

Colonoscopies may not be the most pleasant experience, but the risks of not getting one are much greater. Some of the potential risks of not getting a colonoscopy include:
•    Colon cancer: Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, with over 50,000 people dying from the disease each year.
•    Colostomy bags: In some cases, colon cancer or other health problems can require the use of a colostomy bag, which can be a significant lifestyle change.
•    Bowel obstruction: A bowel obstruction can occur when the colon becomes blocked, which can lead to severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women behind skin cancers. Mammograms can find breast cancer early – one in eight women will get breast cancer in her lifetime. If you haven’t had your mammogram this year, call your doctor to schedule it today!

Is it time for your routine mammogram?
Doctors recommend having a breast cancer screening at least every two years.*  Having breast cancer screenings, like routine mammograms, can help find breast cancer early when it’s easier to treat. If you haven’t had your mammogram this year, call your primary care doctor or OB-GYN to schedule it today! 

What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is a low dose X-ray of the breast that radiologists use to find signs of breast cancer and look for breast changes. The machines are designed to look only at breast tissue and results can often show abnormal areas in the breast. Mammograms are the best screening tests for detecting breast cancer early, when it’s small, hasn’t spread, and is easier to treat.

Who should get breast cancer screenings?
•    Women ages 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year.
•    Women ages 55 and older can switch to a mammogram every other year, or they can choose to continue yearly mammograms.

What are some risk factors for breast cancer?
Examples of factors you cannot change:
•    Having a family history of breast cancer
•    Inheriting certain gene changes
•    Having dense breast tissue
Examples of lifestyle-related factors:
•    Drinking alcohol
•    Being overweight or obese
•    Not being physically active

What are common breast cancer signs and symptoms?
•    A new lump or mass in the breast
•    Swelling of all or part of a breast
•    Breast or nipple pain
•    Swollen lymph nodes under the arm or near the collar bone

How much does a routine mammogram cost?
Your Florida Blue Medicare plan covers your routine mammogram at no extra cost when you use an in-network provider. 

Need help finding an in-network provider?
Go to Find a Doctor to see doctors and pharmacies in your plan’s network.

Questions or need help scheduling your in-network mammogram? 
Call Member Services at 1-800-926-6565 (TTY: 1-800-955-8770).
Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time, seven days a week, from October 1 through March 31, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. From April 1 through September 30, our hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday, except for major holidays.

*According to the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF).

Diabetes affects all parts of your body. It’s important to get the screenings and tests you need to manage your diabetes and avoid these complications.

•    It's a leading cause of blindness in adults. Protect your sight. Schedule your retinal eye exam with a network optometrist or ophthalmologist today. 
•    It’s also important to get your urine tested for protein every year to protect your kidney health. 
•    Your A1c test measures your blood sugar levels and it's used to monitor how well your diabetes treatment is working over time. It's a critical step in forming your game plan to manage diabetes with your diabetes care team. Catch signs of complications earlier by getting your blood sugar checked regularly. Make an appointment today for your A1c test.

High blood pressure can increase your risk of a range of health problems, from kidney disease to heart failure. But by taking control of your blood pressure, you can reduce your risk of developing these conditions and stay healthy for years to come. Here are six reasons to work with your doctor to keep your blood pressure under control. 

1.    Your brain health is at risk: High blood pressure can increase your risk of memory loss and even dementia. But research shows that lowering your blood pressure can help keep your brain healthy and sharp.

2.    Your kidneys are working overtime: High blood pressure can put extra strain on your kidneys, leading to kidney damage and disease. But by managing your blood pressure, you can help keep your kidneys healthy and functioning properly.

3.    Your heart is under pressure: High blood pressure can increase your risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes. But by making healthy lifestyle changes, you can help keep your heart healthy and strong.

4.    Your vision is at risk: High blood pressure can increase your risk of vision loss and eye damage. If you have diabetes, you're already at higher risk for eye problems, like diabetic retinopathy. But research shows that lowering your blood pressure and getting regular eye exams can help protect your vision and eye health. In fact, the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends people with diabetes get a comprehensive eye exam every year to catch any potential problems early.

5.    Your bones are affected by your blood pressure: High blood pressure can increase your risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. But by managing your blood pressure and getting enough calcium and vitamin D, you can help keep your bones strong and healthy.

6.    Your life expectancy is tied to your blood pressure: High blood pressure can reduce your life expectancy, but managing your blood pressure can help you live a longer, healthier life.

Use these tips to recover at home after a hospital stay.

Understand your hospital discharge instructions:

Make sure you ask your doctors and nurses at the hospital any questions you have about your discharge instructions. Take notes and ask if there is a nurse you can call if you have any questions.

Manage your medications: 

Review your medication list with your doctor and ask about any changes or new medications. Make sure you understand the dosage, frequency, and potential side effects. Do you struggle to take your medication on time? Taking your medication as directed is crucial for your treatment to be effective. Try these tips:
•    Use a pill organizer.
•    Set reminders, like an alarm on your phone, or mark your calendar.
•    Ask a friend or family member for help. Have them call or text you when it’s time to take your medication.

Make an appointment with your primary care doctor:

Schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as you get out of the hospital. Update them on your hospital visit and make sure any new medications or treatments will work well with any existing prescriptions you have. Seeing your doctor right away after a hospital visit is one of the best ways to avoid a return trip.

Monitor your condition: 

Report any changes in how you feel to your doctor. Also, if you are taking any new prescription medications, make sure to keep track of any side effects you may feel. Try keeping a symptom journal to track how you feel. 

Stay connected to your doctor: 

Maintain open communication with your health care team to address any concerns or questions you may have. Don’t wait to ask questions or report any concerns you have. Also, make sure to attend all your follow-up appointments.

Ask for help when you need it:

Recovering from a hospital stay can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. Don't be afraid to seek support from family, friends, or support groups.

Five tips to manage heart disease

1.    Preventive care: See your doctor every year to take charge of your health. They’ll check your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels. Also, make sure to get your flu shot every year to protect you and your family from getting sick. 

2.    Lifestyle: Eating healthy and staying active can help improve your condition. Regular physical activity can help lower your blood pressure, improve your cholesterol levels, and reduce your risk of heart disease complications. A balanced diet can also help you maintain a healthy weight, lower your blood pressure, and improve your overall health. Focus on eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

3.    Medication: Make sure to take your medication as prescribed. This includes any medications you are taking for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Statins can also help lower your cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease complications. Check with your doctor to determine if statin therapy is right for you.

4.    Talk to your doctor: Make sure to check in with your doctor after a hospital stay. And make sure you understand your post-hospital instructions. By staying connected with your health care team, you can ensure a smooth transition and reduce your risk of complications.

5.    See if you qualify for support from our care team: Our care team can help you manage your care. Click here to learn more.