I started working as a doctor in 1981. Back then, I helped children learn lifelong healthy habits — such as brushing their teeth, wearing seat belts and eating good food. I believed that staying healthy starts with prevention — and I still believe that today.

Now, after many years of observing care for older adults, I’ve seen how important it is to keep up with good habits. Good habits and regular care help us stay healthy as we age. Making smart choices and seeing your doctor often can make a big difference.

One day, I went to my doctor for a regular visit. She found that I had warning signs for diabetes. With her help, I changed how I ate and moved more. I lost 44 pounds and got healthier. That one visit helped me avoid bigger problems later on.

Many people have stories like mine. Some find cancer early; others catch heart problems before they get worse. These checkups aren’t just for when you feel sick — they help you stay well.

People sometimes miss or skip health checkups because of the cost, the travel or confusion over their health insurance benefits. For those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, the two plans can work together to provide coverage for their needs. Being dual-eligible can provide greater health care coverage. Medicaid also covers some expenses that Medicare does not, such as long-term nursing home care and personal care services.

Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans, or D-SNPs, are a type of Medicare Advantage plan designed to help those eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid get their needs met under a single, easy-to-manage plan. The benefits are geared to support the health and well-being of dual-eligible individuals. D-SNPs often include important benefits, such as $0 copays on hundreds of prescription drugs, plus dental, vision and hearing coverage. Some may also provide an allowance to assist with everyday needs such as vitamins, first-aid supplies or pain relievers.

By supporting Medicare Advantage members’ daily needs, D-SNPs can make care more affordable, easier to use and less confusing, so people can focus on what matters most — their health.

From now until Dec. 7, you can look at your Medicare Advantage and drug plan options. If you have both Medicare and Medicaid, this is a great time to learn about D-SNPs and how they can help you.

Even if you feel fine, it’s smart to get checkups and talk to your doctor. Finding problems early can save you trouble later. If you’re not sure what benefits you qualify for, ask questions and explore your options.

If you are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, ask a licensed sales agent about D-SNPs. You might get extra help with your health and daily needs. ( Humana.com/dual has information about how to qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid.)

Health isn’t just about medicine. It’s also about support, such as rides to the doctor, or help with paying for everyday needs and covered screenings.

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Dr. Liz Peterson is Humana’s vice president of health services for Chicago. A pediatrician by training, Peterson earned her undergraduate and medical degrees from Indiana University and completed her pediatric residency at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. Before joining Humana in 2012, she held leadership roles spanning commercial, Managed Medicaid and Medicare Advantage plans, as well as multispecialty medical groups.

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