Get clear on preventive care
Think of preventive care as a doctor's visit that is meant to keep you healthy before anything goes wrong. We’re here to help you make sense of what that includes, so you can get care with confidence.
What does my plan cover?
Most Blue Shield of California health plans include preventive care services with no added cost. That means that your routine screenings and immunizations shouldn’t cost anything extra. Sign in to your member account to get a detailed look at your personal coverage.
Routine care to catch things early and keep you well before you have any symptoms. Included in most Blue Shield plans at no added cost.
Examples:
- Flu shots
- Colon cancer screenings and mammograms*
- Routine screenings for blood pressure or cholesterol
- Pediatric wellness visits
Generally, it is testing or treatment for an existing illness or injury. It’s used to diagnose a specific condition and to figure out treatment. May include an added cost depending on the service.
Examples:
- Imaging (X-rays and ultrasounds) to confirm injury or illness
- Blood tests that determine or manage specific conditions
- Discussing new symptoms with your doctor
- Managing existing conditions such as diabetes or cancer
Smart tip
- If your doctor discovers a possible health problem during a preventive service, it could turn into a diagnostic service as they investigate.
- Before your next appointment, check that your doctor is in network. If you go to an out-of-network provider for preventive care, you may have to pay additional costs.
FAQs
Coverage may vary by plan. Please see your plan documents for preventive care coverage details.
* Sometimes these procedures can be diagnostic. Always check your health plan details and talk with your doctor to be sure of what type of procedure you’re having.
