Health exams that matter
Know which routine exams help manage diabetes and heart conditions — and how they support your health over time
Regular health exams are key to managing a chronic condition like diabetes or heart disease. These covered screenings can also make it easier to catch other issues early and keep you on track for a healthier future.
Routine exams give your provider important information about how your body is working and whether your current care plan is helping you stay healthy. Some tests help guide everyday treatment decisions, while others check for complications that can develop quietly over time. Understanding why these exams matter — and how often they’re recommended — can help you take an active role in your health.
Not everyone needs every exam. Talk with your provider about which of these covered exams are best for you.
Exams for diabetes
Diabetes affects many parts of the body, especially when blood sugar stays high over time. Regular exams help monitor blood sugar control. They also help detect early signs of problems that may not cause symptoms at first.
Your care team is here to help you manage your health and find local support
Your care team adds an extra layer of support to your plan. They can help you set up medical appointments and connect with community services. Simply put, they can make your day a little easier.
A1C
Why this exam matters
The A1C test shows your average blood sugar over the past two to three months and how well you’re managing your diabetes. Regular A1C testing helps lower the risk of long-term complications such as nerve, kidney and eye damage.
Who should get it
Most people living with diabetes benefit from regular A1C testing, no matter how they manage their condition.
When to get this exam
Many people have an A1C test two to four times a year. (It really depends on your treatment goals and how stable your blood sugar levels are.) Talk with your provider to decide on the best care plan for you.
Fasting blood sugar
Why this exam matters
This test measures blood sugar after not eating. It also helps guide day-to-day treatment, such as how your body manages blood sugar between meals and medication schedules.
Who needs it
People with diabetes or prediabetes may have fasting blood sugar tests as part of routine care or when your provider makes treatment changes.
When to get this exam
Your provider may recommend this test during routine visits or when monitoring changes in treatment.
Foot exam
Why this exam matters
Diabetes can damage nerves and reduce circulation in the feet, making it easier for injuries to go unnoticed and harder for them to heal. Foot exams check for nerve damage, poor circulation and sores that can lead to serious complications.
Who needs it
Anyone living with diabetes should have their feet checked regularly.
When to get this exam
Many providers perform a basic foot check at every visit and a more detailed exam at least once a year.
Covered care that supports you
In addition to these covered exams, your plan includes benefits that can help support your health, including:
- $0 copay on certain in-network specialists, including cardiologists and endocrinologists
- $0 copay on over 200+ Tier 1 prescription drugs for chronic conditions at in-network pharmacies
- Certain dental services, prescription eyewear and hearing aids are covered
Want to learn more about your plan? Check your Evidence of Coverage (EOC) for details through your secure member website.
Eye exam
Why this exam matters
High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the eyes. This exam looks for diabetes-related eye conditions like diabetic retinopathy that can affect vision if not treated early.
Who needs it
People with diabetes, even if they don’t notice vision changes.
When to get this exam
Your eye care provider will often recommend a comprehensive eye exam once a year. In some cases an eye care provider may suggest more frequent visits.
Exams for heart health
Heart conditions (such as chronic heart failure, cardiac arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease and valvular heart disease can change over time, even when you feel well. Regular heart health exams help your provider monitor your condition, spot issues early and guide care. They can also help lower your risk of heart disease if you have diabetes or other risk factors.
Blood pressure
Why this exam matters
Blood pressure (BP) measures how hard your heart works to pump blood. High readings can sometimes have no symptoms.
Who needs it
Most adults benefit from regular blood pressure checks, especially those with heart disease, diabetes or a family history of heart problems.
When to get this exam
Your provider will typically check your blood pressure at every routine health care visit.
Cholesterol
Why this exam matters
Cholesterol tests check fat levels in your blood. High levels can raise your risk for heart attack or stroke.
Who needs it
Adults with heart disease or other risk factors like diabetes often need regular cholesterol testing.
When to get this exam
Many people have their cholesterol checked every one to two years. More often if levels are high.
Electrocardiogram (EKG)
Why this exam matters
An EKG records your heart’s electrical activity. It can help detect rhythm problems or past damage.
Who needs it
People with heart symptoms, known heart disease or certain risk factors may benefit from an EKG.
When to get this exam
Your provider will often order an EKG. They will often do so based on symptoms or your health history.
Stress test
Why this exam matters
A stress test shows how well your heart works during physical activity. It can help your provider spot blood flow issues.
Who needs it
People who have heart disease or who have chest pain or shortness of breath.
When to get this exam
This exam can give your provider more information to treat you. It’s usually not required on a set schedule, unless recommended by a health care professional.
See Evidence of Coverage for a complete description of plan benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features and availability may vary by service area. This material is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Health information programs provide general health information and are not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician or other health care professional. Contact a health care professional with any questions or concerns about specific health care needs. Providers are independent contractors and are not agents of Aetna. Provider participation may change without notice. Aetna is not a provider of health care services and, therefore, cannot guarantee any results or outcomes. The availability of any particular provider cannot be guaranteed and is subject to change. Information is believed to be accurate as of the production date; however, it is subject to change. For more information about Aetna plans, refer to our website. The formulary and/or pharmacy network may change at any time. You will receive notice when necessary. Participating health care providers are independent contractors and are neither agents nor employees of Aetna. The availability of any particular provider cannot be guaranteed, and provider network composition is subject to change. The benefit(s) mentioned are part of special supplemental benefits for the chronically ill (SSBCI). SSBCI conditions include certain cardiovascular disorders, congestive heart failure, and diabetes. Eligibility is determined by whether you have a chronic condition associated with the benefit(s). Standards and conditions vary for each benefit. Contact us to confirm the specific SSBCI condition requirements for the benefit(s) for this plan and determine your eligibility.
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