What is meant by 'Preventive Care' benefits in health insurance?

Preventive care benefits in health insurance refer to services that are designed to prevent illnesses and detect health issues at an early stage before they become more serious. This includes a variety of services such as vaccinations, screenings (like mammograms and colonoscopies), annual check-ups, and counseling to help individuals adopt healthy lifestyles. The focus is on maintaining good health and preventing diseases rather than treating conditions after they arise.

By prioritizing preventive care, health insurance plans aim to improve overall public health and reduce healthcare costs in the long run, as treating conditions at an early stage is often less expensive and more effective than addressing advanced diseases. This approach is distinct from other types of coverage that may primarily focus on managing existing health conditions or procedures that are often necessary due to poor health outcomes.