Pennsylvanians urged to prioritize health

As heart disease continues to be a leading cause of death in Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) urges Pennsylvanians this American Heart Month to prioritize heart health by taking advantage of preventive services covered with no out-of-pocket costs by their health insurance.

"Too many Pennsylvanians delay care they're already entitled to out of fear of high costs," said Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys. "Under the ACA, your health insurance coverage should make it easy for you and your family to access screenings, counseling, and other services that can help your heart stay healthy."

Most individual (for people who buy their own insurance) and group (for small businesses) commercial health insurance plans sold in Pennsylvania must meet the Affordable Care Act (ACA) requirements, along with other federal and state laws and regulations. PID protects Pennsylvanians by reviewing and analyzing health insurance policy forms and rates before they are sold on Pennsylvania's market to ensure they meet these laws and regulations and that the rates are not excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory. PID also monitors benefits offerings to ensure the commercial health insurance market works fairly for all Pennsylvanians.

Heart Health Preventive Services Commonly Covered by Insurance

The following preventive services help detect early warning signs and support healthier lifestyle choices that can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Under most comprehensive health insurance plans, including those offered through Pennie, Pennsylvania's official health marketplace, these preventive services are covered at no cost when provided by an in-network provider:

Blood pressure screenings;

Cholesterol screenings;

Diabetes screenings;

Obesity screenings and nutritional counseling;

Tobacco use screening and cessation counseling;

Routine wellness visits and annual checkups; and

Counseling for healthy diet and physical activity for adults at risk of heart disease

PID encourages residents to review their health insurance benefits, schedule regular checkups, and speak with their health care providers about heart health risks. Consumers should also confirm whether providers are in-network to ensure full coverage of preventive services.

Pennsylvanians with questions about their insurance, health plan or a denied claim should visit pa.gov/consumer or call 1-866-PA-COMPLAINT (1-866-722-6675).

Pennsylvanians looking to learn more about health insurance should visit PID's dedicated Health Insurance page.

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