by Paige Stephens // Wellpath Vice President of Benefits
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I call myself the poster child for preventative care.
Nine years ago, at the age of 43, I was diagnosed with breast cancer during an annual mammogram screening. No lump or symptoms and no family history – because I had a screening done each year starting at age 40 the radiologist could see changes in my tissue and ordered the biopsy. Fortunately, it was caught early – I opted for radical treatment and fortunately radiation or chemotherapy wasn’t required. Five years later, I was fully released and no longer required to follow up with my physicians.
Fast forward to last summer, at the age of 50, I was diagnosed with colon cancer during my first colonoscopy. Again, no symptoms and no family history. Fortunately, again, it was caught early. While surgery was required, I did not have to undergo radiation or chemotherapy – because it was caught early.
My message is simple – make yourself your #1 priority and schedule your annual screenings and physical. They are considered preventative care and are therefore covered at 100% by all health plans – which means no out of pocket cost for you!
