A 2026 Refresh

A new year brings a fresh start and one of the best ways to set yourself up for a healthier 2026 is by taking advantage of the preventive care benefits included in your health insurance plan. Whether you’re enrolled in an ACA Marketplace plan or Medicare, many preventive services are available at no cost to you when you visit in‑network providers. That means no copay, no deductible, and no coinsurance for a wide range of screenings and checkups designed to keep you healthy. We believe knowledge is empowering. So here are five preventive services you may want to schedule early in the year while your calendar is still open, and your deductible has just reset.

 1. Annual Wellness Visit or Preventive Checkup. Preventive visits help you and your doctor track your overall health and catch potential issues early. For ACA plans: Your yearly preventive exam is free when you visit an in‑network doctor. For Medicare: Medicare covers your “Welcome to Medicare” visit (first 12 months of Part B) and your Annual Wellness Visit every year after that – both at no cost.

These appointments are perfect for:

• Updating your medical history
• Reviewing your medications
• Discussing long‑term health goals
• Getting personalized advice to improve your well‑being

 2. Preventive Screenings Based on Age & Risk. Your plan covers dozens of screenings that can detect issues early and when they’re most treatable. Common no‑cost screenings include:

• Blood pressure
• Cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Mammograms
• Colon cancer screenings
• Osteoporosis tests
• Lung cancer screenings (for qualifying individuals)

Scheduling these early ensures you have time to complete follow‑up testing if needed.

 3. Immunizations and Vaccines. Preventive vaccines are fully covered on Marketplace and Medicare plans. Depending on age and health history, this may include:

• Flu shot
• COVID‑19 vaccines
• RSV vaccine for older adults
• Shingles vaccine
• Pneumonia vaccine
• Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)

Vaccines protect not just you, but also the people you care about.

 4. Women’s Preventive Health Services. Women have access to a variety of no‑cost services, including:

• Annual well‑woman exam
• Contraceptive counseling and certain contraceptives
• Breast cancer screenings
• Cervical cancer screenings (Pap test and HPV testing)

Starting the year with preventive care helps ensure your long‑term health stays on track.

 5. Mental Health Screenings. Your emotional health matters just as much as your physical health. ACA and Medicare plans cover screenings for:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Substance use concerns

Talking through mental health with your provider can open the door to valuable support and resources that are included in your plan’s preventive care benefits.

Why Schedule These Services Early in the Year?

Getting ahead on preventive care can help you:

• Catch potential issues early
• Avoid unexpected medical costs
• Stay on track with long‑term health goals
• Make the most of benefits you’re already paying for

Need Help Understanding Your Preventive Benefits?

We help individuals and families understand their ACA Marketplace and Medicare coverage, so they feel confident in using their benefits. If you’re unsure what your 2026 plan covers, or need help choosing a provider, we’re here for you. Click here to contact us for a free coverage review.