What type of preventive medical care is covered?

According to a report from the AARP Public Policy Institute “Use of Clinical Preventative Services and Prevalence of Health Risk Factors among Adults Aged 50-64," a survey found between25,000 to 40,000 deaths per year among Americans younger than 65 could be prevented if these individuals abstained from tobacco, lost weight, ate healthy and exercised regularly.

If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you'd be amazed by the sheer breadth of preventative clinical services covered.

Here are a few vital procedures to keep in mind:

1. Colonoscopies

The American Cancer Society suggests that men and women should receive a colonoscopy every five years starting at age 50. This extremely important exam will allow a doctor to inspect the colon and rectum to scan for colorectal cancer, as well as removing any polyps that may be present.

2. Cancer screenings

Women should begin receiving regular breast cancer screenings beginning at age 40, while cervical cancer screenings should occur every 3 years. Men should pay particular attention to their risk for prostate cancer, and doctors typically offer to perform one each year to check for early warning signs of the disease. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S., so at the first sign of irregular skin growths, you should consult a physician. All cancer screenings are eligible for FSA reimbursement, so stay on top of your regular examinations.

3. High blood pressure

Your FSA can cover qualifying equipment like blood pressure monitors that will allow you to perform frequent screenings in the comfort of your own home. This can help you adjust risk factors like diet and regular exercise to bring your blood pressure down to normal levels.

Shop for blood pressure monitors with an FSA

4. Diabetes

The American Diabetes Association recommends routine screening for type 2 diabetes beginning at age 45, especially if you exhibit risk factors like obesity or family history. This testis usually performed with a random blood sugar test, a fasting blood sugar test or oral glucose tolerance test to reveal your status.

Shop for diabetic care for with an FSA

If you'd like to learn more about what your FSA covers, check out the FSA Eligibility List.