07 Jul Why You SHOULD (and better) Get a III-A Wellness Screening

The 411 on III-A’s Fall Wellness Screening! Check out below for common Q&A’s of a Wellness Screening:

What is it and who can participate?
Every fall, the III-A Nurse Practitioners will come onsite for Wellness Screenings for any employee and spouse on the III-A medical plan. Dependents age 12 and over on the III-A plan may receive a flu vaccine (at no cost).

What is the cost?
The screening is free for members and spouses on then III-A Medical Plan.

What screenings and vaccines are offered?
Lipid panel, Thyroid (TSH), Diabetes (A1c), Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP), Complete Blood Count (CBC), Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) – for males, Blood Pressure, BMI (optional), take home Colon Cancer Screening (Cologuard), and an Influenza vaccine.

Is fasting required?
No! But if you do decide to fast, be sure to let the nurses know.

How will I get my results?
All results, along with educational material, will be mailed to your agency’s clerk/HR (in sealed envelopes) to be distributed within 2 weeks. If you have any concerning elevated/abnormal results, you will receive a follow-up phone call from the Provider.

Can I get additional labs done?
Yes, but they will not be covered at 100%, and will be billed to your BCI insurance and applied to deductible/cost share.

What if I have a PCP (Primary Care Provider) that I get labs with already?
That is okay, you can do this one too, and both will be covered at 100%. OR take your labs from the III-A screening to your PCP, and that will save you a step!

How often should I do a Wellness Screening?

• Most are recommended annually, but it’s important to note that the frequency and specific screenings may vary depending on factors such as age, family history, and individual risk factors. It’s best to consult with your PCP or III-A providers to determine the most appropriate screening schedule and tests for your specific needs.

Are skin checks/screenings provided?

• Yes! We are working hard to make skin cancer screening checks by a Dermatologist PA available to you during your screening. Also, if a biopsy is needed, they can do those this year as well (for no additional cost).

Why is it important to get an annual wellness screening?

• Early Detection of Health Issues: Regular screenings can help identify potential health problems early on when they are more manageable and treatable. Many conditions, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and certain cancers, may not display obvious symptoms in the early stages. Screening tests can help detect these conditions or risk factors before they progress.
• Prevention and Risk Assessment: Wellness screenings often include assessments of your overall health and risk factors for certain diseases. This can help identify lifestyle modifications or interventions that can reduce your risk of developing chronic conditions. For example, your PCP may provide guidance on diet, exercise, smoking cessation, or vaccinations to prevent certain diseases.
• Health Monitoring: Annual wellness screenings allow your PCP to monitor your health over time. By comparing results from year to year, they can detect any changes or trends that may require further investigation or treatment.
• Relationship with Your Primary Care Provider (PCP): Regular check-ups foster a continuous relationship with your PCP. This enables you to discuss any health concerns, ask questions, and receive personalized advice or recommendations based on your specific needs. Developing a rapport with your provider enhances the quality of your healthcare and ensures better coordination of any necessary treatments. Also, the III-A Telehealth providers are the same providers doing onsite screenings, so this is a huge WIN for your continuation of care if you need to utilize telehealth.
• Mental Health Support: Annual wellness screenings often include discussions about mental health and well-being. These conversations can help identify signs of stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions. Early detection and intervention can lead to appropriate treatment and support.
• Health Education and Counseling: Wellness screenings provide an opportunity for PCP’s to educate and counsel individuals on various health topics. They can offer guidance on healthy lifestyle choices, preventive measures, nutrition, exercise, and stress management techniques.

Stay tuned for emails from your HR/Clerk on how to sign you and your spouse up for a wellness screening this fall.  Also, you have the chance to win a $50 gift card by participating!  Win, win!

If you have any questions, you can call or email Megan Smith, III-A Wellness Manager at 208-860-1979 or [email protected].