Having screening tests done is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Screenings are medical tests that check for diseases before there are any known symptoms. Screenings can help doctors find diseases early, which can then be easier to treat. Bear in mind, that screening tests are only a guideline, for a more accurate diagnosis of a disease, your doctor may refer you for more extensive blood tests to determine whether you require medication and/or medical treatment.
Which screening tests and vaccines does the Society cover?
The following Preventative Benefits are available to beneficiaries:
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HEALTH SCREENING |
You will be covered for the following diagnostic tests:
- Blood sugar;
- Blood pressure;
- Cholesterol;
- Bone density scan for beneficiaries over the age of 50 years;
- Measurement of height, weight and waist circumference; and
- Body Mass Index (BMI) calculation.
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HIV SCREENING |
You also have cover for the following HIV tests and services:
- Pre-testing counselling
- Testing and post-test councelling
Most of these benefits are available from a pharmacy, but it would be preferable to use a Dis-Chem pharmacy where possible to avoid unnecessary co-payments.
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VACCINATIONS |
The following vaccinations are included under the vaccination benefit:
- Flu vaccine
- Pneumococcal vaccine
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine (Beneficiaries aged 9-26)
- Childhood vaccines
- Other preventative vaccines
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CANCER SCREENING TESTS |
- Pap smear – usually performed by a GP or gynaecologist.
- Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) – a blood test to screen for prostate cancer.
- Mammogram – performed at a radiology practice.
- Colorectal screening – where a sample of your stool is screened by a pathologist.
All screening tests will be covered at the SRPL rate or negotiated rate for DSPs. If the provider charges more than these rates, the difference will be for your account.
Other Benefits
