Women often take on the responsibility of watching over the health of their families, but ironically sometimes neglect their own health. It’s important for women of all ages to be aware of risks to their health and opportunities to enhance their wellbeing.
For instance, when you are first enrolled on Medicare, you might have a one-time “welcome to Medicare” physical exam with your regular primary care physician. If you currently have Medicare or other insurance, ask your doctor if you are due for any of the following.
- A bone mass measurement, which can predict your likelihood for broken bones.
- For heart health – cholesterol, lipid and triglyceride blood work.
- To detect diabetes, a glucose (blood sugar) test is done.
- If you have a family history of glaucoma, a disease of the eyes, Medicare may cover a test for this.
- Cancer screenings covered by Medicare may include colorectal (the most common cancer in Iowa), Pap test for cervical cancer and mammogram for breast cancer.
- Vaccines for Hepatitis B, pneumonia and influenza (the flu) will help protect your health.
If you are currently without health insurance, contact Health Navigation at Dallas County Public Health at 515-993-3750 to look into options for coverage. Health Navigation services are free.
Ann Cochran is the health navigation coordinator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
