What does preventive care typically include?

Preventive care is designed to maintain health and prevent the onset of diseases before they occur. This type of care typically includes services such as vaccinations, screenings, and check-ups, which help identify potential health issues early on when they are most treatable or preventable. For instance, vaccinations protect against infectious diseases, while screenings can detect conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or cancer at an earlier and more manageable stage.

On the other hand, surgeries and extensive treatments fall under a different category of medical care, focusing on addressing existing health issues rather than preventing them. Emergency room visits are also not included in preventive care; they are usually required for acute conditions that need immediate attention rather than for fostering general health. Similarly, while laboratory tests can be part of a preventive assessment, those with co-pay requirements typically relate to diagnostic or treatment purposes, not preventive services as a whole. Thus, vaccinations and screenings accurately reflect the core aspects of preventive care.