Health screenings are medical tests, exams or procedures that help your doctor detect potential health issues – sometimes before symptoms appear, and sometimes to monitor or detect existing concerns. While many screenings are preventive and aim to catch problems early, others are used to assess the status of your health or follow up on known risk factors.  

Early detection leads to better outcomes – we recommend speaking with your doctor or using our free online screening tool to learn what screenings may be right for you.  

Preventative and preventive screenings are specific tests designed to catch health issues early before symptoms appear. These screenings might include cancer screenings, heart health checks and diabetes testing.

Even if you feel fine, screenings can uncover conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes or certain cancers early when they’re easier to treat. Many health conditions don’t show symptoms until they’ve already progressed, so regular screenings can provide a more accurate picture of your overall health status.

Risk factors are traits or habits that can increase your chances of developing a health condition. These can include things like family history, lifestyle choices, age or environmental exposures. Your primary care provider will help you understand your personal risk profile and recommend screenings tailored to you. Before your visit, you can use our online screening tool to give you a starting point for your conversation with your provider.

A medical screening may include things like:

•   Blood pressure checks

•   Blood tests, such as cholesterol or glucose

•   Cancer screenings like mammograms or colonoscopies

•   Diabetes screenings

•   Heart health assessments

•   Physical and wellness exams

Your provider will guide you through what’s appropriate based on your age, health history and lifestyle.  

Some common health screenings offered at Ballad Health include:

•   Mammograms for breast cancer

•   Pap and HPV tests for cervical cancer

•   Colonoscopy and stool tests for colorectal cancer

•   Blood pressure and cholesterol checks for heart disease

•   Blood glucose tests for diabetes

•   Low-dose CT scans for those at risk of lung cancer

•   Prostate exams for prostate cancer

Screening schedules vary by age or risk level. We recommend using our free online screenings tool or speaking with your provider to help determine the right timeline for you.

What takes place during a screening appointment can vary depending on the type of test. Some screenings are like wellness visits, involving a review of your health history and a physical exam. Others may include specific tests – such as blood work, imaging scans or other procedures using specialized equipment.

You’ll also have the opportunity to ask your provider questions and talk about your health goals. Your provider will guide you through what to expect based on the type of screening you’re receiving. 

Yes. As you age, your risk for certain conditions increases, and your screening needs may change. For example, you may need more frequent screenings for heart disease or cancer. Your doctor or provider will adjust your care plan to match your needs. 

Many screenings are covered by insurance, especially those considered preventive. Your insurance provider can help you better understand your coverage.  

You may not need a referral for basic screenings, but some specialized tests may require one. Your care team can help you navigate the process based on what screenings are recommended for you.

Ballad Health offers screenings at variety of locations throughout East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia, including primary care clinics, imaging centers, breast centers and hospitals. We also offer a mobile health clinic, which works to bring screenings to rural communities in our area.

You can use our find a provider tool to help locate a doctor near you.