There are a number of things we do to maintain our bodies – exercise, eat healthy, sleep and drink plenty of water. One thing, however, that many people overlook is a regular visit to the doctor for check-ups and medical screenings.
This is particularly true for the uninsured. Without the right medical coverage, many worry about the cost of routine doctor's visits and wait to go until they are already ill. Not only is this bad practice for your health, but it often ends up costing you more in expensive treatments later on.
Why medical check-ups are essential
Medical check-ups are important for several reasons, not the least of which is that they can catch bigger health problems before they start. Many standard check-ups will screen for dangerous health concerns, including:
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Skin cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Obesity
- Breast and cervical cancers
With early intervention, these types of ailments can be often be treated and managed quite easily, but if left undetected, things can get much more serious. This is particularly true for people who are very old, very young, pregnant or living with a diagnosed illness or a family history of disease.
Prevention is far better than cure for health reasons, but also where your wallet is concerned. Compared to emergency surgery or extensive treatment, the cost of a preventative check-up is marginal – especially when you have comprehensive medical insurance.
What can I expect at a medical check-up?
The whole purpose of a medical check-up is to gauge how your health is and to implement any changes – whether they be medicinal or simple lifestyle changes – that could improve your health.
Your doctor will ask you about your lifestyle and general health. Questions about your diet and exercise habits, as well as your family health history can tell a lot about the type of care an individual needs. Often a medical check-up can be the final push someone needs to change their diet, cut back on alcohol consumption or begin an exercise routine.
Doctors in the main advise that men and women of all ages should get regular health checks once a year.
For women, some of the most important screenings to get include:
- Pap tests and pregnancy checks
- Heart health
- Diabetes
- Bone density
- Bowel cancer
- Breast cancer
Men will have other things to go over, including:
- Bowel cancer
- Prostate health
- Diabetes
- Heart health
What are the most important health screenings for Papua New Guineans?
In PNG, patients will have all the same concerns as men in women in other parts of the world, but there are certain diseases that are more prevalent here such as diabetes and tuberculosis.
To be sure you are in good health when going for your health check, make sure you check for the following:
- Tuberculosis and malaria – In PNG, these diseases are common, and early intervention is key in preventing morbidity and mortality
- Diabetes and blood sugar levels
- Cholesterol levels to ensure they aren't too high
- Blood pressure
Without medical coverage, annual check-ups and screenings may be out of reach for many people. At Trans Pacific Assurance Limited, we feel that you should never have to compromise your health because you feel you cannot afford it. That's why our medical insurance solution covers preventative care, check-ups and screenings. Reach out today to find out more.
