March 3, 2025

In today’s world, we often think of healthcare as something we rely on only when we get sick. Insurance covers doctor visits, hospital stays, and certain medications—but what about the proactive steps we can take to prevent illness in the first place? Many of these essential services, such as genetic testing, health coaching, and fitness programs, are not covered by insurance. Yet, investing in them now can save you not only money but also years of your health and well-being in the future.

The Cost of Waiting for Illness

When faced with the price of preventive healthcare services, some may hesitate, thinking, “Is this really necessary?” However, the reality is that once a chronic illness sets in—whether it’s diabetes, heart disease, or cancer—the financial burden is much higher. Medical bills, lost wages due to illness, and reduced quality of life far outweigh the upfront cost of prevention.

Smart Investments in Your Health

1. Genetic Testing for Disease Prevention
2. For individuals with a family history of conditions like breast cancer, heart disease, or Alzheimer’s, genetic screening can provide early insight into potential risks. For example, testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations can help women understand their risk for breast cancer and take preventive measures such as increased screenings or lifestyle changes.
3. Health and Life Coaching for Sustainable Well-Being
4. A health coach can provide personalized guidance on nutrition, exercise, and stress management—areas where traditional medical care often falls short. Similarly, a life coach can help with mindset, goal-setting, and motivation, which are critical for long-term health behavior changes.
5. Gym Memberships and Personal Training
6. Exercise is one of the most effective ways to prevent chronic conditions like hypertension, obesity, and depression. While some may view a gym membership as an unnecessary expense, the long-term benefits far exceed the costs. A structured fitness program can keep you accountable and help prevent costly medical issues down the road.
7. Comprehensive Preventive Screenings
8. Many crucial health screenings—like advanced cardiac testing, full-body MRIs, and specialized metabolic panels—go beyond standard insurance coverage. These tests can identify early markers of disease, allowing for intervention before the condition becomes serious.
9. Mental Health Care and Stress Reduction Therapies
10. Stress is a silent killer, linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, and even cancer. Investing in mental health services such as therapy, mindfulness programs, or even infrared sauna sessions for relaxation can improve overall well-being and prevent future health complications.

Penny-Wise, Pound-Foolish: The Bigger Picture

Choosing not to invest in preventive healthcare to save money in the short term is like avoiding oil changes to save on car maintenance—eventually, the breakdown will cost far more. While it may be frustrating that insurance doesn’t cover these valuable services, the reality is that we must take our health into our own hands.

Your health is your most valuable asset. By making proactive investments today, you’re not only extending your lifespan but also improving the quality of your life. The choice is yours—spend wisely on prevention, or pay the price of illness later.

Your Health, Your Future

If you’re unsure about which preventive steps are right for you, talk to a trusted healthcare provider. Together, we can create a plan that prioritizes your long-term well-being and ensures that you stay healthy, active, and thriving for years to come.



Your Doc,

Namita Swarup Sachdeva, MD