Preventive Care Checklist for Every Age in Maryland
Why Preventive Care Matters in Maryland
Preventive care helps detect health issues early long before they become serious. Whether you’re managing chronic conditions or focusing on long-term wellness, regular screenings and checkups keep you healthy and informed.
Maryland follows national guidelines but also recommends specific screenings based on regional needs, lifestyle, and personal risk factors.
Preventive Care Checklist by Age
In Your 20s: Build Healthy Habits Early
Annual physical exam
Blood pressure check
STI testing as needed
HPV vaccination (if not completed earlier)
Mental health screening
Establish a primary care provider for long-term monitoring
In Your 30s: Monitor Key Health Markers
Annual checkup
Cholesterol screening
Diabetes screening for those with risk factors
Skin cancer screening
Reproductive and family planning counseling
Stress and sleep health evaluation
In Your 40s: Watch for Early Warning Signs
Annual wellness exam
Thyroid function testing (as needed)
Mammogram starting at age 40 (earlier if high-risk)
Diabetes screening
Eye exam for vision changes
Colon cancer screening may begin at 45
In Your 50s: Prioritize Major Screenings
Colon cancer screening (colonoscopy or stool tests)
Mammogram every 1–2 years
Prostate cancer screening discussion for men
Bone density test for women (based on risk)
Hearing test
Cardiovascular risk assessment
In Your 60s and Beyond: Protect Aging Health
Annual physical exam
Bone density scan
Shingles vaccine
Vision and hearing evaluations
Fall-risk assessment
Cognitive health screening
Ongoing heart, lung, and diabetes monitoring
Vaccines You Should Stay Updated On
Recommended for Maryland residents:
Flu shot (yearly)
COVID-19 boosters
Tdap every 10 years
Shingles vaccine (age 50+)
Pneumonia vaccine (age 65+ or earlier with medical conditions)
Lifestyle Habits That Support Prevention
Eat a balanced diet rich in whole foods
Stay physically active
Prioritize sleep
Manage stress through exercise or mindfulness
Drink plenty of water
Quit smoking and limit alcohol
When to See Your Primary Care Provider
If you’re unsure which screenings you need, your provider can create a personalized preventive care plan based on your age, medical history, and lifestyle.
For personalized preventive care in Maryland, please feel free to
👉 Contact Family Health Practice.
FAQs: Preventive Care in Maryland
Why is preventive care important?
Preventive care helps detect conditions early, improving treatment outcomes and reducing long-term health risks.
What screenings do I need at my age?
The exact screenings vary by age, but include blood pressure, cancer screenings, cholesterol tests, and diabetes checks.
Does insurance cover preventive care?
Most preventive care services are covered under insurance, including Maryland-based plans, but coverage varies by provider.
How often should I have a physical exam?
Once a year for most adults, unless your provider recommends more frequent visits.
