As the year draws to a close, South Africans are encouraged to make time for health decisions that are often postponed, such as booking a routine check-up, completing relevant screenings, reviewing their healthcare cover and understanding the benefits available to them.
With household budgets under pressure, many people are weighing healthcare costs more carefully. Preventative care, however, can help identify risks early and give people clearer information on which to base decisions about their health and finances.
“Routine checks are not only for when something feels wrong,” says Damian McHugh, Chief Marketing Officer at Momentum Health. “They give people a clearer picture of their health and can help identify concerns at an earlier stage, when they may be easier to manage.”
People may delay health checks because they feel well, worry about the cost or fear receiving unwelcome news. Yet even a basic consultation can provide useful insight into common risk factors, including blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol.
Know the numbers that matter
A few routine measurements can help a healthcare professional assess a person’s general health and identify areas that may need attention.
“A routine health check can offer a useful snapshot of what is happening beneath the surface, particularly because many common health risks do not cause noticeable symptoms,” adds McHugh.
Blood pressure is a good example. Often described as a “silent” risk factor, high blood pressure can increase the likelihood of heart attack, kidney disease and stroke without causing someone to feel unwell.
Blood sugar is another important measure. A simple finger-prick test, often done after fasting, can help identify early signs of prediabetes or diabetes. A healthcare professional may also consider body mass index, or BMI, which uses height and weight to provide a general indication of whether someone may be at risk of weight-related health conditions. BMI is only one part of the picture, however, and should be assessed alongside other factors such as lifestyle, medical history and body composition.
Screening checklist
The screenings that are appropriate for one person may not be right for another. Age, sex, family history, lifestyle, existing health conditions and any symptoms can all influence what a healthcare professional recommends.
“An annual check-up is also an opportunity to review routine vaccinations and boosters, dental care and mental wellbeing. A healthcare professional can help people understand which screenings are most relevant to their health history, risk factors and current priorities,” adds McHugh.
Review healthcare benefits and cover
The final months of the year are also a good time to check what benefits remain available through a medical scheme or health insurance policy. Depending on the plan and personal needs, these may include preventative screenings, GP consultations, chronic-condition support, vaccinations or wellness assessments.
Those considering changes to their healthcare cover for the coming year should look beyond the monthly contribution.
“Important considerations include whether the plan meets their current needs, provides appropriate access to care and supports the healthcare needs of any dependants,” says McHugh.
Five health decisions to make before year-end
Before the end of the year, South Africans should consider whether they have:
- Booked a routine health check-up and completed relevant screenings.
- Reviewed any unused benefits available through their healthcare cover.
- Considered their personal health risks, including family history, lifestyle choices, and any changes in their health.
- Checked whether they are up to date with vaccinations, dental care, and mental health support.
- Reviewed whether their healthcare cover remains suitable for their needs and budget in the year ahead.
“Being informed makes it easier to make practical choices,” says McHugh. “A check-up, an honest review of your needs and a better understanding of your benefits can all help people plan more confidently for the year ahead.”
