The end of the year can sneak up fast, and it’s easy to push aside things like going to the doctor when schedules get busy. But if you’ve met your deductible or have health benefits that reset in January, it makes sense to schedule any needed appointments or procedures now so you can get them in before the year ends. Doing so not only helps to keep you healthier, but it can also save you money.

Here are some appointments to make now so you can get on the schedule before January rolls around:

Annual Physical

If you haven’t had your yearly checkup, now’s the time to schedule it. Even if you feel fine, a physical is a great way to catch problems early and get answers to any health questions you may have. Your doctor can check your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, which are important health indicators. They may also recommend other tests based on your age or medical history. And since preventative care appointments are usually covered in full by insurance, there’s no reason to skip it.

Screenings

Depending on your age, family history, and other factors that can increase your risk of disease, it may be time for you to get important health screenings. Not all screening tests are required annually, but if you’re due for one of these screenings, make an appointment now so you can get it on the schedule before year end:

• A mammogram to check for breast cancer
• A colonoscopy or stool-based test to check for colon cancer
• A pap test or HPV screening to check for cervical cancer
• A low-dose CT scan to check for lung cancer if you’ve been a heavy smoker
• A bone density test to check for osteoporosis

Some of these tests may be fully covered under your insurance plan since they’re considered preventive care. Even if they’re not, you’ll be well ahead of the game if you’ve already met your deductible for the year, which is why year-end is a great time to schedule these screenings.

Elective Procedures

If you’ve been putting off a procedure, like getting a mole removed, having a hernia repaired or undergoing cataract surgery, now is a good time to make it happen. If your deductible is already met or you’ve hit your out-of-pocket maximum, your costs could be much lower now than they’ll be next year when your insurance resets.

Vision and Dental Appointments

Vision and dental benefits are separate from regular medical insurance and may work differently. Many plans offer things like a free annual eye exam or twice-yearly dental cleanings, and if you don’t use them during the year, you lose them. So if your plan includes these benefits, or even if it doesn’t and you haven’t been to the dentist or an eye doctor in a while, get these on the calendar. Appointments tend to fill up fast around year-end so people can take advantage of their health benefits before they expire. It’s best to beat the rush by scheduling now.

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