What does "preventive care" refer to in health insurance?

Preventive care in health insurance encompasses medical services aimed at preventing illness and detecting health issues at an early stage, before they develop into more serious conditions. This type of care typically includes services like vaccinations, screenings (such as mammograms or colonoscopies), annual check-ups, and counseling on lifestyle changes.

By focusing on prevention, healthcare providers can help individuals maintain better health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and avoid more costly treatments later on. This proactive approach is encouraged by insurers, as it can lead to better health outcomes and lower overall healthcare costs.

The other options refer to different aspects of healthcare, such as treatment for existing conditions, emergency care for urgent situations, and specific surgical procedures, none of which align with the primary goal of preventive care.