Ensuring your well-being isn’t just about eating right and staying active—it’s also about having access to crucial health services. But what happens if you relocate or find yourself in a new place, and suddenly you’re unsure where to get the healthcare you need? In this in-depth look at essential health services, we’ll explore five pillars of health care that should be your no-compromise list—universally important services that deserve your attention even before you need them. Whether you’re an expat, a college student moving away from home, or just planning a big cross-country move, this guide will help you understand what to look for in your new healthcare reality.
Dental Care You Can Count On
Dental health is key to overall well-being, whether it’s a nagging toothache or just time for your bi-annual cleaning. Surprisingly, dental care often takes a hit in terms of accessibility and coverage, even in developed countries. Here’s what to check for:
- Regular check-ups and cleanings: The best preventative dental care includes routine check-ups with your dentist every six months.
- Emergency dental care: It’s crucial that the plan you have, whether insurance-based or out-of-pocket, covers emergency treatments such as root canals or extractions.
- Orthodontic treatments: If you or a family member requires braces or other orthodontic care, having access to a plan that covers this can save a lot of money and hassle.
Don’t wait until you have a dental emergency to figure out your coverage—ensure you have access to a skilled dentist as soon as you move.
Regular Physicals and Preventive Medicine
As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Regular physical examinations can detect potential health concerns before they become serious issues, and for many, these are touchpoints for health planning.
- Annual check-ups: From blood pressure to cholesterol, an annual physical can keep you on top of any health changes.
- Vaccinations and immunizations: Especially if you have young children or work with the public, ensuring your health service provides access to the necessary vaccines is essential.
- Screenings for chronic illness: For those with a family history or other risk factors, yearly screenings are a must.
When selecting a new healthcare provider, ask about their approach to preventive medicine, whether they offer same-day health visits and the range of services they offer to take care of your overall wellness.
Emergency Healthcare Ready When You Need It
Life is unpredictable, and injury or sudden illness can strike at any time. You’ll want to be sure that you’re within reach of quality emergency healthcare no matter where you are.
- Access to 24/7 services: Whether it’s a community clinic or an urgent care facility, know where you can turn in the middle of the night.
- Insurance coverage for ER visits: Emergency room costs can add up quickly—if you’re in a new country, make sure your insurance covers these visits.
- Distance to local hospitals: Whether it’s a personal approach or simply knowing you’re close to help, the proximity to emergency care is something to consider when choosing a place to live.
Needing emergency care is stressful enough without having to worry about where to go or how you’ll pay for it.
Services for Chronic Conditions
If you suffer from a chronic condition, the ability to access care becomes even more critical. Finding a provider who is well-versed in your condition and the treatments available can be a game-changer for your quality of life.
- Specialized services: Look for healthcare facilities that offer specialized care for your specific condition.
- Continuous coverage for medications: Be certain that you’ll have access to the medications you need to manage your health without interruption.
- Care coordination: Especially if your condition requires multiple healthcare professionals, a system that coordinates your care is invaluable.
Living with a chronic condition can be challenging; having reliable, consistent care can make all the difference.
Eye Care Beyond Just Sight
Eye health is often overlooked until we notice a problem, but routine eye exams and treatment can prevent severe vision loss later in life.
- Comprehensive eye exams: Regular check-ups with an optometrist or ophthalmologist can detect eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts early on.
- Treatment for vision problems: Whether it’s glasses, contact lenses, or corrective surgeries, ensure your health service covers the solutions to your vision needs.
- Emergency eye care: Not all eye issues can wait, and you will want to be able to address emergencies with the same level of speed and skill as any other medical emergency.
When you relocate, know where the closest eye care professional is and your service and insurance coverage options.
Moving to a new location can be exciting, but it also brings with it a certain level of uncertainty, especially when it comes to healthcare. You can enjoy peace of mind by ensuring you have access to these five essential health services, knowing that you and your family are taken care of, regardless of where life takes you. Health is your most valuable asset, and taking the time to get these services in order is a worthy investment in your future. After all, good health allows you to fully enjoy and take advantage of everything your new home offers.
