TAKE ACTION

JANUARY 2023

Put your well-being on the calendar

In January, the new year is still a blank canvas. If you’ve taken the 2023 pledge, you’re probably already thinking about your goals for your emotional, financial and physical well-being. You may also be thinking about all the ways you plan to grow this year.

Want to make the best possible start? Take the pledge (if you haven’t already) and encourage your spouse or domestic partner to join you. Then take out your calendar and start scheduling appointments that are essential for your well-being.

Print

Looking for more? Find other articles below

Schedule these appointments in 2023

Here are just a few of the well-being appointments you should schedule for and put on your calendar. Check the resources below to learn more, including how to find a primary care doctor.

Annual physical

COST: $0*

During this exam, the doctor will check your vitals, like your blood pressure, heart rate and temperature, and will talk to you about your family’s medical history. Depending on your health background and history, your doctor might also do some blood work or further testing. Even if you’re young and in excellent health, it’s important for your doctor to get to know you, establish a baseline and be alert to changes in your health that may occur in the future.

Two dental exams and cleanings

COST: $0*

It’s important to get a dental exam and have your teeth cleaned every six months. Not only will your dentist monitor your dental hygiene, but they’ll also check for gum disease. And they’ll periodically take X-rays to check for tooth decay, impacted teeth or tooth movement. Remember, the earlier oral health problems are treated, the less costly and aggressive the treatment will be.

Dermatology exam

COST: VARIES

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Be sure to conduct monthly skin cancer self-exams. Plus, annual skin exams by a board-certified dermatologist may be recommended if you have a:

• History of skin cancer in your family
• History of blistering sunburns or tanning bed use
• Large number of moles or a history of atypical moles
• History of regular sun exposure

Vision exam

COST: COVERED UP TO $80*

The American Optometric Association recommends getting an exam at least every two years to have your eyes checked for things like cataracts and glaucoma. After age 40, you’ll want to get an eye exam every year.

Gynecology exam

COST: VARIES

If you’re female and over age 21, or are sexually active (whichever comes first), you need to start seeing a gynecologist. During this exam, your doctor will check your breasts, conduct a pelvic exam and possibly do a Pap smear (this is typically done every three to five years, depending on your age), where they’ll check your cervix to test for any cancerous cells or abnormalities. 

Mammogram

COST: $0*

A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast. Regular mammograms can help detect breast cancer at an early stage. They can often find breast changes that could be cancer years before physical symptoms develop.

• Women under the age of 40 with family history of breast cancer, or who have discovered a lump.
• Women between ages 40 and 44 have the option to start screening with a mammogram every year.
• Women ages 45 to 54 should get a mammogram every year.
• Women ages 55 and older can switch to a mammogram every other year, or they can choose to continue yearly mammograms. Screenings should continue as long as a woman is in good health.

Vaccinations

COST: $o*

Make sure to get your flu shot and any other vaccinations your in-network primary care provider (PCP) recommends. You’ll find a complete list of vaccinations the CDC currently recommends by age group here.

Financial checkup

COST: VARIES

A financial checkup looks at the current state of your finances and helps you determine any changes you need to make to meet your goals. It may include the following.

• Reviewing your life changes. They can affect your taxes and financial goals.
• Creating a budget to be intentional about spending, saving and investing.
• Assessing, reducing and managing your debt.
• Checking your credit score since it affects loan rates and terms you receive.
• Revisiting your retirement plan to make sure it aligns with your goals.
• Evaluating your estate plan so your loved ones are protected.

Get a free 30-minute financial consultation through Resources For Living^® (RFL^®)**.

*If you’re enrolled in a Costco medical plan.

**Resources For Living is available to all employees and members of their household, including children up to age 26 living away from home.

Sources: InStyle. The 6 doctors’ appointments you need to make this year.
American Cancer Society. American Cancer Society recommendations for the early detection of breast cancer.
Investopedia. How to conduct a financial checkup.

For more information on how your Costco benefits can support your efforts to enhance your emotional, financial and physical well-being, see the resources below.