General Information Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical, dental, or health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Readers should not rely solely on the information contained herein for managing their health and are encouraged to seek guidance from a qualified health practitioner regarding any medical or health-related concerns. Navy Health Limited accepts no liability for any loss or injury incurred as a result of reliance on the information presented.
As we look ahead to a new year, it’s a good reminder that staying well often comes down to the small things we do consistently. Preventive care and regular check-ups play an important role in protecting your health, helping to identify potential issues early and supporting long-term wellbeing, no matter your age or stage of life.
Rather than waiting until something feels wrong, preventive care helps you stay informed, proactive and in control of your health.
The importance of preventive care
Preventive care includes regular check-ups, screenings, and services that help detect health issues early, before they become more complex, painful, or expensive to treat. It’s about looking ahead, rather than waiting for a problem to appear. In Australia, preventable health risks remain common. and nearly half of Australians live with a condition that could have been prevented. ¹
Here’s how preventive care can make a meaningful difference:
- Early detection: Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, glaucoma, and hearing loss often develop slowly, without obvious symptoms. Regular health checks can catch these issues early, improving outcomes and making treatment easier.
- Improved quality of life: Staying on top of your health helps you stay active, mobile, and independent. Preventive care also supports mental wellbeing by reducing stress and giving you more control over your health care journey.
- Cost-effective in the long run: Preventive care reduces the need for emergency treatments, hospital stays or complex surgeries, all of which are more costly than early intervention. In fact, every dollar invested in preventive health is estimated to save around $14.30 in healthcare and other costs. ²
In short, it’s not just about living longer — it’s about living better.
Some practical examples of preventive care
Making preventive care part of your routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple steps you can take that can make a big difference to your long-term health:
- Yearly medical check-ups with your GP to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and general wellbeing.3
- Dental check-ups and cleans, which help prevent gum disease, tooth loss, and other oral health issues that are linked to heart health and diabetes. Generally, Dental check-ups and cleans every 6 to 12 months can be enough to prevent these problems from becoming painful, costly, or difficult to treat. 4
- Eye exams, especially for detecting conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. Specsavers advise to have an eye exam every two years unless advised otherwise by your optometrist or unless eye problems occur earlier. 5
- Hearing test — Untreated hearing loss has been linked to social isolation and cognitive decline.6 Discuss with your healthcare specialists to determine how often you should undergo a hearing check.
- Cancer screenings, including bowel, breast, and skin checks, are especially important as we age. 42% of Australia’s cancer burden is linked to modifiable risk factors, and early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. 7 Consult with your GP or appropriate healthcare specialist to determine how often you might need to complete a cancer screening.
- Routine vaccinations, such as the flu shot, shingles vaccine, and pneumonia vaccine, can help prevent serious illness. You can talk to your GP or other healthcare provider to determine which vaccines you may need and when.
When these checks are built into your healthcare routine, and covered by a supportive Extras policy, you’re more likely to stay on track and feel in control.
The role of Extras Cover
As our health needs grow with age, Extras cover becomes much more than just additional insurance, it’s a proactive tool that empowers you to take charge of important aspects of your health and wellbeing. Regular access to allied health services through Extras cover can make a real difference to your ongoing health.
Navy Health’s Extras cover includes a wide range of services that support preventive care. From regular dental cleans to physiotherapy and podiatry, these benefits are designed to keep you moving, feeling confident, and staying well and in control of your health.
For example, physiotherapy can improve strength, mobility and balance which helps reduce the risk of falls. Chiropractic and osteopathic care supports spinal health and relieves joint pain, while podiatry helps you stay active and mobile by addressing foot pain, circulation issues, and complications related to diabetes or arthritis.
Optical benefits ensure you can access regular eye exams that can detect changes in vision early, while dental care can prevent more serious oral health issues that impact overall wellbeing.
At Navy Health, we understand that no two members are the same. That’s why our Extras cover options are designed to be comprehensive, with a focus on value, personal care, and ease of access.
With Navy Health Extras cover, you can expect:
- Comprehensive coverage across a wide range of services that support preventive care including dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropractic, osteopathy, podiatry, and more.
- Tiered cover options so you can choose from different levels of Extras cover to match your lifestyle, budget, and health goals.
- Unlimited general dental* and discounted optical networks^ which helps you access preventive services whilst reducing out-of-pocket expenses, including when using our optical partner providers.
- Support that puts members first. Our team is here to help you understand your benefits, manage claims easily, and get the most from your cover.
Whether you’re focused on maintaining mobility, dental health, looking after your vision or hearing, or simply wanting peace of mind, our Extras cover is here to support you at every stage.
Make Preventive Care Part of Your Plan
Preventive care is one of the best investments you can make for your long-term health, and Navy Health’s Extras cover is here to help make it more accessible.
Sign up now and receive 6 weeks free, plus 2 and 6 months waits waived!**
Prefer to speak to someone? Call our customer service team on 1300 306 289 for personalised advice and support.
We’re here to help you stay well now, and into the future.
- Health protection, preventive health and sport – Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care
- Older Australians, Health service use – Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
- Yearly health checks – Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
- Dental check-up – healthdirect
- How Often Should I Have A Eye Test? – Specsavers Australia
- Hearing Loss, Loneliness, and Social Isolation: A Systematic Review – PMC
- Maximising cancer prevention and early detection – Australian Cancer Plan
*Unlimited General Dental on Healthy Living Extras or Premium Extras only. Waiting periods may apply. To view cover options, click here.
^Discounts available at participating optical providers only. Offers may vary by provider and are subject to change. Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please check in store or here for full details.
** New members only. Terms and conditions apply.
