- Have you completed your annual physical yet this year?
- Have you taken time to have any necessary health screenings?
- Are there any vaccines you may need?
It’s easy to get caught up in the summer sunshine, but you should try to schedule any appointments you need for the rest of the year so you can make the most of your AXA XL benefits this year.
If you’re unsure of where to start, read on to learn more about the types of recommended screenings and vaccines – and even how you can earn awards by simply taking care of yourself!
Please note that the following content describes general recommendations from the US Preventive Services Task Force. You may need additional, more frequent, or earlier screenings depending on factors such as family history and personal health history. Talk to your doctor about the care best for you.
For all ages
See a primary care provider (PCP) regularly: Establishing a relationship with a PCP allows you to regularly connect with a medical professional who can help you stay healthy and treat you when you get sick. A PCP is your health partner and is there to address your everyday health concerns. Consider setting up your annual physical (if you haven’t already) to get a full-body health check-in. Tip: Schedule your physical around your birthday each year, so you’re certain to get it every year!
Get your teeth and vision checked: It is recommended to get a dental cleaning once every six months, and adults without vision impairment should see an optometrist at least every two years. If you are considered an at-risk population, you may need an annual vision check-up, but talk with your doctor about the best frequency for you. Under the AXA XL dental plan, preventive exams – cleanings and X-rays – are covered at 100%. In both AXA XL vision plan options, an eye exam is $10.
Schedule specialty preventive care exams: Depending on your circumstances, you may need to schedule additional annual well-being exams. For example, if you’re an adult with female anatomy, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends annual pelvic examinations as part of a “well-woman” exam. Children also require regular well-child visits with a pediatrician. If you have other health conditions, such as diabetes, allergies, or heart issues, you may need additional regular check-ins with a specialist. Talk with your specialist to understand the best check-in frequency for you.
Get vaccinated: Flu prevention starts with just one vaccination— and as an AXA XL colleague, it’s free too! All AXA XL colleagues can receive a no-cost flu vaccination on-site during Healthy You eXpos in the fall, and those covered by an AXA XL medical plan are eligible to receive a flu vaccination at any in-network doctor’s offices at no cost.
You should also make sure that you’re current on other vaccinations, including COVID-19 and Tdap for tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough. You may need other vaccinations depending on your age, life circumstances and health conditions too; review the CDC website to learn more.
Earn up to $450!
All AXA XL colleagues and their spouses who are enrolled in an AXA XL medical plan are eligible to earn awards for completing healthy actions with values ranging from $25 to $125. Sample redeemable preventive care actions include completing the following:
- A biometric screening ($100)
- A flu vaccination
- A COVID vaccination
- A preventive vision exam
- A preventive dental exam
- An annual physical
- An annual OB/GYN exam
- A prostate cancer screening
- A cervical cancer screening
- A colon cancer screening
- A mammogram
Visit the Staying Well page to learn more.
For ages 18 – 44
The following are some screenings you may consider, if eligible and if recommended by your doctor:
- Cholesterol screening: It is recommended that adults have their cholesterol checked every four to six years. Having high blood cholesterol levels can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other problems.
- Cervical cancer screening: For those with female anatomy, a cervical cancer screening is recommended every three years from ages 21 to 30. After 30 years old, this may change to every five years, but talk to your doctor to see what’s right for you.
For ages 45 – 65
The following are some screenings you may consider, if eligible and if recommended by your doctor:
- Cholesterol screening: It is recommended to get your cholesterol regularly checked every four to six years.
- Colon cancer screening: Get a colon cancer screening starting at age 45 and at least every 10 years thereafter.
- Lung cancer screening: Those who are between 50 and 80 years old and that have smoked regularly, smoke now, or have quit within the past 15 years are recommended to get a yearly lung cancer screening.
- Cervical cancer screening: For those with female anatomy, get your cervical cancer screening based on your agreed upon timeframe with your doctor (either every three or five years depending on your choice of test).
- Breast cancer screening: There are a variety of breast cancer screenings available, including mammograms. Adults with female anatomy should receive a breast cancer screening every two years at age 50 and onwards.