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Preventive Health
Guidelines
The power of prevention
The power of prevention
Put our preventive health guidelines into practice.
Your family’s health could depend on it.
You’ve heard the old saying about an ounce of prevention. Your
doctors know that preventive screenings and tests often are the
best first steps in preventing illness. They also allow for rapid
response at early onset of health problems, when treatments
can be most effective.
To take advantage of the power of prevention, you and your entire
family need to stay current with the recommended screenings and
tests appropriate for your age, gender, medical history, current
health and family history.
We have compiled the following guidelines to help you keep track
of what’s needed and when. It’s just one more way we’re working
to make your health easier to maintain.
For children ages 0 to 2
Immunizations
Shot number in a series 1 2 3 4
DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus,
acellular pertussis)
2 4 6 15–18 months
Flu, annual For children 6 months and older 2,18
Hepatitis A 12–23 months (second dose at least 6 months after first)
Hepatitis B 0 (birth)1–2 6–18 months
Hib (Haemophilus influenzae
type b)
2 4 6 12–15 months
IPV (inactivated
poliovirus vaccine)
2 4 6–18 months
Meningococcal
Age 2 months–18 months
2 4 6 12 months
MMR (measles,
mumps, rubella)
First dose at 12–15 months, second dose at ages 4–6
Pneumococcal (pneumonia)2 4 6 12–15 months
RotaRix (rotavirus), or 2 4 months
RotaTeq (rotavirus)2 4 6 months
Varicella (chicken pox)12–15 months, second dose at ages 4–6
Screenings/counseling/services
Autism Children 18–30 months old
Blood tests 24–48 hours after birth1
Flouride use Discuss use or prescribe supplement for age 6 months and older24
Gonococcal ophthalmia Topical eye medication administered during initial newborn care
Hearing loss One- or two-step screening process for newborns
Height and weight Periodically
Iron deficiency anemia Children age 6–12 months at average or increased risk
Lead Risk assessment for children up to age 18 identified as at risk for lead poisoning
Sickle cell
disease screening
Risk assessment and testing if risk identified
Tuberculosis Risk assessment and testing if risk identified
Topics you may want to
discuss with your doctor
Safety
• Use a checklist to “babyproof”
your home.
• Check your home for the
presence of lead paint.
Nutrition
• Breast-feeding and iron-
enriched formula and food for
infants.
Dental health
• Do not put your baby or
toddler to bed with a bottle
containing juice, milk or other
sugary liquid. Do not prop a
bottle in a baby’s or toddler’s
mouth. Clean your baby’s
gums and teeth daily.
• Use a clean, moist washcloth
to wipe gums. Use a soft
toothbrush with water only,
beginning with eruption of
first tooth.
• Age 6 months to preschool:
Discuss with your dentist
about taking an oral fluoride
supplement if water is
deficient in fluoride.
• Age 2: Begin brushing child’s
teeth with pea-size amount of
fluoride toothpaste.
Autism
• Assessment at 18 and 30
months by your child’s doctor.
Injury prevention for:
infants and young children
A special message about SIDS.
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is the leading cause of
death for infants. Put infants to sleep on their backs to decrease
the risk of SIDS.
Take these steps to “babyproof” your home and give your child
a safe environment:
• Use the right car seat for your vehicle and for your child’s
weight. Read the car seat and vehicle manufacturer’s
instructions about installation and use. Use a rear-facing car
seat until your child is at least 1 year old and weighs at least
20 pounds.
• Keep medicines, cleaning solutions and other dangerous
substances in childproof containers, locked up and out of
reach of children.
• Use safety gates across stairways (top and bottom) and
guards on windows above the first floor.
• Keep hot-water heater temperatures below 120° F.
• Keep unused electrical outlets covered with plastic guards.
• Provide constant supervision for babies using a baby walker.
Block the access to stairways and to objects that can fall (such
as lamps) or cause burns (such as stoves or electric heaters).
• Keep objects and foods that can cause choking away from
your child. This includes things like coins, balloons, small toy
parts, hot dogs (unmashed), peanuts and hard candy.
• Use fences that go all the way around pools, and keep gates
to pools locked.
Immunizations
DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus,
acellular pertussis)
Ages 4–6
Flu, annual Recommended2,18
Hepatitis A For children not previously vaccinated and risk factors are present
Hepatitis B For children who did not complete the immunization series between 0–18
months
IPV (inactivated
poliovirus vaccine)
Ages 4–6
MMR (measles,
mumps, rubella)
Second dose at ages 4–6
Pneumococcal (pneumonia)For children with risk factors 6 or an incomplete schedule
(ages 2–5)
Varicella (chicken pox)Second dose at ages 4–6
Screenings/counseling/services
Height, weight, vision, BMI
and hearing
At annual exam
Flouride use Discuss use or prescribe supplement for age 5 and younger24
Iron deficiency anemia Children newborn to age 21
Lead Risk assessment for children up to age 18 identified as at risk for lead poisoning
Obesity Screening, counseling and behavioral interventions for children age 6
and older
Skin cancer Behavioral counseling for minimizing exposure to ultraviolet radiation for
children age 10 and older at high risk
Tuberculosis Risk assessment and testing if risk identified
Topics you may
want to discuss
with your doctor
Safety
• Use a checklist to “child-
proof” your home.
• Check your home for the
presence of lead paint.
Exercise
• Ages 0–5: Participate in
physical activity as a family,
such as taking walks or playing
at the playground. Limit
television to less than two hours
a day.
• Age 6 and up: Regular
physical activity can reduce
the risks of coronary heart
disease, osteoporosis, obesity
and diabetes.
Nutrition
• Eat a healthy diet. Limit
fat and calories. Eat fruits,
vegetables, beans and whole
grains every day.
Dental health
• Ask your dentist when and
how to floss child’s teeth.
• Age 5: Talk to your dentist
about dental sealants.
Other topics for discussion
• Well-child visits are a good
time to talk to your doctor
about any concerns you
have with your child’s health,
growth or behavior.
Be aware of your child’s recommended weight: Use our online tools to calculate your child’s body
mass index (BMI) by logging in to blueshieldca.com and searching for BMI.
For children ages 3 to 10
Injury prevention for:
Older children
• Children should use a booster seat in the car’s back seat until
they are at least 8 years old or weigh at least 80 pounds.
• Older children should use car seat belts and sit in the back seat
at all times.
• Make sure your child wears a helmet while rollerblading or
riding a bicycle. Make sure your child uses protective
equipment for rollerblading and skateboarding (helmet,
wrist and knee pads).
• Warn your child of the dangers of using alcohol and drugs.
Many driving and sports-related injuries are caused by the
use of alcohol and drugs.
For all ages
• Use smoke detectors in your home.Change the batteries every
year, and check once a month to see that they work.
• If you have a gun in your home, make sure that the gun and
ammunition are locked up separately and kept out of
children’s reach.
• Never drive after drinking alcohol.
• Use car seat belts at all times.
• Teach your child traffic safety. Children under 9 years old need
supervision when crossing streets.
• Teach your children how and when to call 911.
• Learn basic life-saving skills (CPR).
• Post the number for the Poison Control Center – (800) 222-1222 –
near your phone. Also, write it in the space on your home
“Important Information” list. The number is the same in every U.S.
location. Do not try to treat poisoning until you have called the
Poison Control Center.
Immunizations
Flu, annual Recommended2
Hepatitis A For individuals not previously vaccinated and risk factors
are present
Hepatitis B For individuals not previously vaccinated
HPV (human
papillomavirus)
A three-shot series at pre-adolescent visit (ages 11–12); may also be given to
females ages 9–26 and males ages 9–26
Meningococcal At pre-adolescent visit (ages 11–12); administer to college-bound students
living in a dorm if not previously immunized8
MMR (measles,
mumps, rubella)
At pre-adolescent visit (ages 11–12 ) if missing second dose
Pneumococcal (pneumonia)For children with risk factors6
Tdap booster (tetanus,
diphtheria, pertussis)
For children ages 11–12 who have completed the recommended DTaP
immunization series17
Varicella (chicken pox)At pre-adolescent visit (ages 11–12) if missing second dose
Screenings/counseling/services
Alcohol misuse Behavioral counseling
Blood pressure, height, weight,
BMI and hearing
At annual exam
Cervical cancer Recommended for women who have been sexually active
Chlamydia Recommended for all sexually active women under age 25
and for women at increased risk for infection11
Contraception FDA-approved contraceptive methods for females, education and
counseling32
Depression For all adolescents
Domestic violence and abuse Screening for interpersonal and domestic violence for adolescents, women,
and women of childbearing age34
Gonorrhea Recommended for all sexually active women who are at increased risk
for infection11
Healthy diet and
physical activity
Behavioral counseling27
Hepatitis B Screening for HBV infection in persons at high risk of infection29
Hepatitis C Screening for HBV infection in persons at high risk of infection30
HIV For all adolescents at increased risk for HIV infection 23
Iron deficiency anemia Children newborn to age 21
Lead Risk assessment for children up to age 18 identified as at risk for lead poisoning
Obesity Screening, counseling and behavioral interventions
Sexually transmitted infections Behavioral counseling as needed26
Skin cancer Behavioral counseling for minimizing exposure to ultraviolet radiation for
adolescents at high risk
Syphilis For individuals at increased risk for infection12
Tobacco use and cessation Screening for tobacco use and cessation intervention
Tuberculosis Risk assessment and testing if risk identified
Topics you may
want to discuss
with your doctor
Exercise
• Regular physical activity
(at least 30 minutes per day
starting at age 11) can reduce
the risks of coronary heart
disease, osteoporosis, obesity
and diabetes.
Nutrition
• Eat a healthy diet. Limit fat and
calories. Eat fruits, vegetables,
beans and whole grains
every day.
• Optimal calcium intake for
adolescents and young adults
is estimated to be 1,200 to
1,500 mg/day.
Sexual health
• Sexually transmitted infection
(STI)/HIV prevention,16 practice
safe sex (use condoms) or
abstinence.
• Avoid unintended pregnancy;
use contraception.
Substance use disorder
• Use of alcohol, tobacco
(cigarettes or chewing),
inhalants and other drugs
among adolescents is a major
concern for parents. Let the
doctor know if you have any
concerns about your child.
Dental health
• Floss and brush with fluoride
toothpaste daily. Seek dental
care regularly.
Other topics for discussion
• It is a good idea to let your
teenager have private time
with the doctor to ask any
questions he or she may not
feel comfortable asking you.
For children ages 11 to 19
Promoting your pre-teen’s and adolescent’s social and emotional development
Parents need to offer open, positive communication while
providing clear and fair rules and consistent guidance. Let your
child find his or her own path while staying within the boundaries
you have set.
• Be a good role model for how to handle disagreements, such as
by talking calmly.
• Praise him or her for successfully avoiding a confrontation, such
as by saying, “I’m proud of you for staying calm.”
• Supervise the websites and computer games that your child uses.
• Set limits on use of computers,telephones, texting and TV after a
set evening hour to help your child get regular sleep.
• Talk to your child about healthy relationships. Dating abuse does
occur among preteens and teens.
• Be a role model for healthy eating and regular physical exercise.
Immunizations
Flu, annual Recommended2
Hepatitis A For individuals with risk factors; for individuals seeking protection3
Hepatitis B For individuals with risk factors; for individuals seeking protection4
HPV (human papillomavirus)For all women age 26 and younger if not previously immunized
Meningococcal College-bound students living in a dorm if not previously immunized8
MMR (measles,
mumps, rubella)
Once, without proof of immunity or if no previous second dose5
Pneumococcal (pneumonia)For individuals with risk factors7
Td booster (tetanus,
diphtheria)
Recommended once every 10 years15
Varicella (chicken pox)Recommended for adults without evidence of immunity; should receive 2 shots10
Screenings/counseling/services
Alcohol misuse Behavioral counseling
Blood pressure, depression,
height, weight and BMI
At well visit, annually
Breast cancer Recommend mammogram every 1–2 years beginning at age 40; BRCA/BART
testing is covered if medically necessary20
Breast cancer
chemoprevention
Recommended for women at high risk for breast cancer and low risk for
adverse effects from chemoprevention
Cervical cancer Recommend for women who have been sexually active and have a cervix
Chlamydia Recommended for all sexually active women under age 25 and for women at
increased risk for infection11
Contraception FDA-approved female contraceptive methods, education and counseling32
Depression For all adults
Diabetes Recommend type 2 diabetes screening for individuals with sustained blood
pressure greater than 135/80 mm Hg22
Domestic violence
and abuse
Screening for interpersonal and domestic violence for adolescents, women,
and women of childbearing age34
Gonorrhea Recommend for all sexually active women who are at increased risk
for infection11
Healthy diet and
physical activity
Behavioral counseling27
Hepatitis B Screening for HBV infection in persons at high risk of infection29
Hepatitis C Screening for HBV infection in persons at high risk of infection30
HIV For all adults at increased risk23
HPV Recommended for all sexually active women age 30 and older in conjunction
with cervical cancer screening (Pap smear)
Latent tuberculosis
infection (LTBI)
Screening for asymptomatic adults at increased risk for infection33
Lipid disorder Recommended for individuals at increased risk9
Obesity Screening, counseling and behavioral interventions
Sexually transmitted infections Behavioral counseling as needed26
Skin cancer Behavioral counseling for minimizing exposure to ultraviolet radiation for young
adults to age 24 at high risk
Syphilis Routine screening for pregnant women and individuals at increased risk
for infection12
Tobacco use and cessation Screening for tobacco use and cessation intervention
Topics you may
want to discuss
with your doctor
Exercise
• Regular physical activity (at
least 30 minutes per day) can
reduce the risks of coronary
heart disease, osteoporosis,
obesity and diabetes.
• Over 40: Consult physician
before starting new vigorous
physical activity.
Nutrition
• Know your body mass index
(BMI), blood pressure and
cholesterol level. Modify your
diet accordingly.
• Eat a healthy diet. Limit fat and
calories. Eat fruits, vegetables,
beans and whole grains
every day.
• Optimal calcium intake for
women between ages 25
and 50 is estimated to be
1,000 mg/day.
• Vitamin D is important for bone
and muscle development,
function and preservation.
Sexual health
• Sexually transmitted infection
(STI)/HIV prevention,16 practice
safer sex (use condoms) or
abstinence.
• Avoid unintended pregnancy;
use contraception.
Substance use disorder
• Stop smoking. Limit alcohol
consumption. Avoid alcohol or
drug use while driving.
Dental health
• Floss and brush with fluoride
toothpaste daily. Seek dental
care regularly.
If you are pregnant,
please refer to the “For
pregnant women” page
for pregnancy-related
recommendations.
For women ages 20 to 49
Immunizations
Flu, annual Recommended2
Hepatitis A For individuals with risk factors; for individuals seeking protection3
Hepatitis B For individuals with risk factors; for individuals seeking protection4
HPV (human papillomavirus)For all men age 26 and younger if not previously immunized
Meningococcal College-bound students living in a dorm if not previously immunized8
MMR (measles,
mumps, rubella)
Once, without proof of immunity or if no previous second dose5
Pneumococcal
(pneumonia)
For individuals with risk factors7
Td booster (tetanus,
diphtheria)
Recommended once every 10 years15
Varicella (chicken pox)Recommended for adults without evidence of immunity; should receive two shots10
Screenings/counseling/services
Alcohol misuse Behavioral counseling
Blood pressure, depression,
height, weight and BMI
At annual exam
Cardiovascular disease Statin use for primary prevention in adults 35
Depression For all adults
Diabetes Recommend type 2 diabetes screening for individuals with sustained blood
pressure greater than 135/80 mm Hg22
Healthy diet and
physical activity
Behavioral counseling27
Hepatitis B Screening for HBV infection in persons at high risk of infection29
Hepatitis C Screening for HBV infection in persons at high risk of infection30
HIV For all adults at increased risk 23
Latent tuberculosis
infection (LTBI)
Screening for asymptomatic adults at increased risk for infection33
Lipid disorder Screening periodically, starting at age 35; age 20 if at increased risk9
Obesity Screening, counseling and behavioral interventions
Prostate cancer Beginning at age 40 if at increased risk 25
Sexually transmitted infections Behavioral counseling as needed26
Skin cancer Behavioral counseling for minimizing exposure to ultraviolet radiation for young
adults to age 24 at high risk
Syphilis, chlamydia
and gonorrhea
Routine screening for individuals at increased risk for infection11,12
Tobacco use and cessation Screening for tobacco use and cessation intervention
Topics you may
want to discuss
with your doctor
Exercise
• Regular physical activity (at
least 30 minutes per day) can
reduce the risks of coronary
heart disease, osteoporosis,
obesity and diabetes.
• Men over 40: Consult physician
before starting new vigorous
physical activity.
Nutrition
• Know your body mass index
(BMI), blood pressure and
cholesterol level. Modify your
diet accordingly.
• Vitamin D is important for bone
and muscle development,
function and preservation.
Sexual health
• Sexually transmitted infection
(STI)/HIV prevention,16 practice
safer sex (use condoms)
or abstinence.
Substance use disorder
• Stop smoking. Limit alcohol
consumption.
• Avoid alcohol or drug use
while driving.
Dental health
• Floss and brush with fluoride
toothpaste daily. Seek dental
care regularly.
“Know your numbers.”
We encourage you to
learn your “numbers” at
your doctor visit and work
toward the optimal goals
through exercise and a
healthy diet.
Heart health factors Optimal goals
Total cholesterol Less than 200 mg/dL
LDL “bad” cholesterol Less than 100 mg/dL
HDL “good” cholesterol 50 mg/dL or higher
Triglycerides Less than 150 mg/dL
Blood pressure Less than 120/80 mmHg
Fasting glucose Less than 100 mg/dL
Body mass index (BMI) Less than 25 kg/m2
Exercise Minimum of 30 minutes most days of the week
For men ages 20 to 49
Immunizations
Flu, annual Recommended2
Hepatitis A For individuals with risk factors; for individuals seeking protection3
Hepatitis B For individuals with risk factors; for individuals seeking protection4
MMR (measles,
mumps, rubella)
Once, without proof of immunity or if no previous second dose5
Pneumococcal
(pneumonia)
Recommended for individuals age 65 and older; and individuals under age 65
with risk factors7
Td booster (tetanus,
diphtheria)
Recommended once every 10 years15
Varicella (chicken pox)Recommended for adults without evidence of immunity; should receive two shots10
Zoster (shingles)Recommended for all adults age 60 and older
Screenings/counseling/services
AAA (abdominal
aortic aneurysm)
For ages 65–75 who have ever smoked, one-time screening for AAA
by ultrasonography
Alcohol misuse Behavioral counseling
Aspirin Visit to discuss potential benefit of use19
Blood pressure, depression,
height, weight, BMI
and hearing
At annual exam
Breast cancer Recommend mammogram every 1–2 years beginning at age 40; BRCA/BART
testing is covered if medically necessary20
Breast cancer
chemoprevention
Covered for individuals at high risk for breast cancer and low risk for adverse
effects from chemoprevention
Cardiovascular disease Statin use for primary prevention in adults 35
Cervical cancer At least every 3 years if cervix present; after age 65, Pap tests can be
discontinued if previous tests have been normal
Colorectal cancer Recommended for adults ages 50–7521
Depression For all adults
Diabetes Recommend type 2 diabetes screening for individuals with sustained blood
pressure greater than 135/80 mm Hg22
Domestic violence
and abuse
Screening for interpersonal and domestic violence for adolescents, women,
and women of childbearing age34
Fall prevention Age 65 or older28
Gonorrhea and chlamydia Recommended for individuals who are at increased risk for infection11
Healthy diet and
physical activity
Behavioral counseling27
HIV For all adults at increased risk for HIV infection23
HPV Recommended for all sexually active individuals age 65 and younger
Latent tuberculosis
infection (LTBI)
Screening for asymptomatic adults at increased risk for infection33
Lipid disorder Screening periodically
Lung cancer Screening for lung cancer in persons with smoking history31
Obesity Screening, counseling and behavioral interventions
Osteoporosis Recommend routine screening for women age 65 and older; routine screening
for men age 70 and older – beginning age can be reduced for individuals at
increased risk13
Prostate cancer Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exam.May or may not
be appropriate. Discuss with your doctor to see if it is more beneficial than
harmful in your case
Sexually transmitted infections Behavioral counseling as needed26
Syphilis Recommended for individuals at increased risk for infection12
Tobacco use and cessation Screening for tobacco use and cessation intervention
Topics you may
want to discuss
with your doctor
Nutrition
• Eat a healthy diet. Limit fat and
calories. Eat fruits, vegetables,
beans and whole grains
every day.
• Optimal calcium intake is
estimated to be 1,500 mg/day
for postmenopausal women
not on estrogen therapy.
• Vitamin D is important for bone
and muscle development,
function and preservation.
Sexual health
• Sexually transmitted infection
(STI)/HIV prevention,16 practice
safer sex (use condoms)
or abstinence.
Substance use disorder
• Stop smoking. Limit alcohol
consumption. Avoid alcohol
or drug use while driving.
Dental health
• Floss and brush with fluoride
toothpaste daily. Seek dental
care regularly.
Other topics for discussion
• Fall prevention.
• Possible risks and benefits
of hormone replacement
therapy (HRT) for post-
menopausal women.
• Risks for and possible benefits
of prostate cancer screening
in men to determine what is
best for you.
• The dangers of drug
interactions.
• Physical activity.
• Glaucoma eye exam by an
eye care professional (i.e., an
ophthalmologist, optometrist)
for those age 65 and older.
For heart health, adults
should exercise regularly
(at least 30 minutes a day
on most days), which can
help reduce the risks of
coronary heart disease,
osteoporosis, obesity
and diabetes. Consult
your physician before
starting a new vigorous
physical activity.
For men and women age 50 and older
Screenings/counseling/services
Alcohol misuse Behavioral counseling
Aspirin Low-dose aspirin use for the prevention of morbidity and mortality from preeclampsia14
Asymptomatic bacteriuria 12–16 weeks gestation or first prenatal visit if after 16 weeks gestation
Breast-feeding counseling Promote breast-feeding to pregnant or postpartum women. Provide comprehensive lactation support and breast-
feeding equipment.
Chlamydia During first prenatal visit and second screening during the third trimester for those at increased risk11
Depression For all adults
Folic acid Discuss use of 0.4 to 0.8 mg daily
Gestational diabetes Women between 24- to 28-week gestations and the first prenatal visit for pregnancy. Women identified to be at
increased risk for diabetes.
Gonorrhea First prenatal visit and second screening during the third trimester if at increased risk11
Hepatitis B First prenatal visit29
HIV First prenatal visit23
Rh (D) incompatibility First prenatal visit and repeat testing at 24- to 28-week gestation unless the biological father is known to be Rh (D)
negative for unsensitized Rh (D) negative pregnant women
Syphilis First prenatal visit, second screening during the third trimester, and at delivery for those at increased risk12
Tobacco use and cessation Screening for tobacco use and tobacco-cessation intervention
Having a baby? Be aware that while almost all women get the “baby blues” after childbirth, as many as 10% will get postpartum
depression. For more information visit our website, blueshieldca.com, and search “postpartum depression” or see your
healthcare provider.
For pregnant women
Recommendations for a healthy pregnancy
Prenatal care
Begin within 14 days of confirming pregnancy.
Dietary supplements
Women of childbearing age should take 0.4 to 0.8 mg of folic
acid daily to decrease the risk of fetal birth defects of the brain
or spine; recommended calcium intake for pregnant or nursing
women: 1,000 milligrams daily.
Screenings and diagnostics
Blood pressure and weight check at all visits: urine test, obstetrical
history and physical, screenings for asymptomatic bacteriuria,
chlamydia, gestational diabetes, Group B streptococcal
bacteria, Hepatitis B, syphilis, gonorrhea, hematocrit, rubella,
varicella, Rh (D) incompatibility; HIV counseling and screening,
ultrasonography, screening for alpha fetoprotein (SB 75 alpha feto
protein), chorionic villus screening (CVS) or amniocentesis (for
women age 35 and older), blood test for certain birth defects,
prior vaccinations (including flu shots), fundal height, fetal
heart tones, discuss preterm labor risk, history of genital herpes,
nutrition, smoking cessation, domestic abuse, mental health as an
initial intervention service after screening for interpersonal and
domestic violence, and other medication and drug use.
Discussion topics at prenatal care visits
Prior vaccinations (including flu shots), history of genital herpes,
nutrition, smoking cessation, other medication and drug use.
Postpartum care
To be performed within three to seven weeks following delivery.
Postpartum exam to include weight, blood pressure, breast and
abdomen exam, or pelvic exam.
Endnotes
1. Blood test for newborns may include congenital hypothyroidism, phenylketonuria
and sickle cell disease.
2. Annual vaccination against influenza is recommended for all persons age 6 months
and older, including all adults. Healthy, nonpregnant adults under age 50 without
high-risk medical conditions can receive either intranasally administered live,
attenuated influenza vaccine, or inactivated vaccine. Other persons should receive
the inactivated vaccine. Adults age 65 and older can receive the standard influenza
vaccine or the high-dose influenza vaccine.
3. Risk factors for hepatitis A should be discussed with your provider.
4. Risk factors for hepatitis B should be discussed with your provider.
5. Measles component: Adults born before 1957 can be considered immune to
measles. Adults born on or after 1957 should receive one or more doses of MMR,
depending on their immune status. Also, a second dose of MMR may be necessary
if exposed, traveling internationally, and other factors. Rubella component:
Women with unreliable vaccination history should check with their provider.
Check with your doctor for details regarding pregnancy.
6. Administer pneumococcal vaccine to children with certain underlying medical
conditions, including a cochlear implant. A single revaccination should be
administered after five years to children with functional or anatomic asplenia or
an immunocompromising condition.
7. One dose for adults at risk, including those with chronic lung diseases (including
asthma and COPD); cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, chronic liver
disease, chronic renal failure, sickle cell disease, and immunocompromising
conditions. Vaccination is also recommended in adults who smoke cigarettes
and residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities. Vaccination is not
recommended in Alaska Native or American Indian persons unless they have
another risk factor present. A second pneumococcal dose may be necessary
for people age 65 and older who received the vaccine more than five years
previously and were younger than 65 at the time of the primary vaccination. A
one-time revaccination is recommended after five years for people with certain
medical conditions, including immunosuppressive conditions and people who
have undergone chemotherapy.
8. Individuals at risk for meningococcal disease include international travelers,
college-bound students or anyone with a damaged or removed spleen or with
terminal complement component deficiency. These individuals should discuss the
risks and benefits of vaccination with their doctor.
9. Lipid disorders risk factors for men ages 20–35 or women age 20 and older include
diabetes, previous personal history of congestive heart disease or non-coronary
atherosclerosis, family history of cardiovascular disease before age 50 in male
relatives and age 60 in female relatives, tobacco use, and obesity (BMI ≥ 30).
10. Individuals at risk for varicella infection include those who have close contact with
persons at high risk for severe disease (healthcare workers and family contacts of
immunocompromised persons) or are at high risk for exposure or transmission (e.g.,
teachers of young children; childcare employees; residents and staff members of
institutional settings, including correctional institutions; college students; military
personnel; adolescents and adults living in households with children; nonpregnant
women of childbearing age; and international travelers).
11. Risk factors for chlamydia and gonorrhea infection include history of chlamydial or
other sexually transmitted infections, new or multiple sexual partners, inconsistent
condom use, commercial sex work and drug use.
12. Risk factors for syphilis infection include all adolescents and adults who receive
health care in a high-prevalence or high-risk clinical setting, men who have had
sex with men, commercial sex workers, and those in adult correctional facilities.
Individuals being treated for sexually transmitted diseases may be more likely
than others to engage in high-risk behavior.
13. Increased risks for osteoporosis include women ages 60 to 64 with all of the
following risks for osteoporotic fractures: lower body weight (weight < 70 kg)
and no current use of estrogen therapy.
14. Pregnant women who are at high risk for preeclampsia use low-dose aspirin
(81 mg/d) as preventive medication after 12 weeks of gestation.
15. People in contact with infants under 12 months of age and healthcare personnel
can be given the Td vaccine as soon as feasible. It is recommended that Tdap
should replace a single dose of Td for adults under age 65 if they have not
previously received a dose of Tdap.
16. Sexually transmitted infections, also known as sexually transmitted diseases, include
chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, HPV, syphilis and others. See infection-specific
notes for information on risk factors for sexually transmitted infections.
17. The Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis) booster is recommended in
children ages 11 to 12 who have completed the childhood DTaP immunization
series and have not yet received a tetanus and diphtheria (Td) booster dose.
18. Children through age 9 getting flu vaccine for the first time – or who received flu
vaccine – should get two doses, at least four weeks apart.
19. Low-dose aspirin use for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD)
and colorectal cancer (CRC) in adults ages 50 to 59 years who have a 10%
or greater 10-year CVD risk, are not at increased risk for bleeding, have a life
expectancy of at least 10 years, and are willing to take low-dose aspirin daily
for at least 10 years.
20. For breast cancer screening, BRCA mutation referral for genetic risk assessment
and evaluation for breast and ovarian susceptibility is recommended for women
with family history associated with an increased risk for deleterious mutations in
BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. BRCA/BART testing, if medically necessary. Please see
Blue Shield of California medical policy on Genetic Testing for Hereditary Breast
and/or Ovarian Cancer.
21. Colorectal cancer screenings include fecal occult blood annually, sigmoidoscopy
every five years, and colonoscopy every 10 years. Beginning age and screening
interval can be reduced for patients at increased risk. Multi-targeted stool DNA
testing every three years.
22. Diabetes screening should be performed for adults with blood pressure 135/80 or
lower if knowledge of diabetes status would help inform decisions about coronary
heart disease prevention strategies. Diabetes screening should be performed
for adults ages 40 to 70 who are overweight and obese. Intensive behavioral
counseling interventions to promote a healthful diet and physical activity for
patients with abnormal blood glucose.
23. Individuals at risk for HIV infection include all adolescents and adults who receive
health care in high-prevalence or high-risk clinical setting; men who have had
sex with men after 1975; individuals having unprotected sex with multiple partners;
past or present injection drug users; commercial sex workers; individuals whose
past or present sex partners were HIV infected, bisexual, or injection drug users;
individuals being treated for sexually transmitted diseases; individuals with a
history of blood transfusion between 1978 and 1985; and individuals who requested
an HIV test despite reporting no individual risk factors.
24. Fluoride oral supplement should be discussed at preventive care visit if primary
water source is deficient in fluoride.
25. Increased risk factors for prostate cancer include African-American men and men
with family history of prostate cancer.
26. Behavioral counseling to prevent sexually transmitted infections is for sexually
active adolescents and adults who meet the following criteria: current sexually
transmitted infections, sexually transmitted infections within the past year, multiple
current sexual partners, and in non-monogamous relationships if they reside in a
community with a high rate of sexually transmitted infections.
27. Intensive behavioral counseling to promote healthy diet and physical activity is
recommended for all adults who have hyperlipidemia or have any known risk
factors for cardiovascular and diet-related chronic disease. Diabetes Prevention
Program – Blue Shield’s lifestyle medicine program focused on diabetes prevention.
28. Falls prevention counseling for older adults to exercise or physical therapy to
prevent falls in community-dwelling adults age 65 and older who are at increased
risk for falls. Vitamin D supplementation to prevent falls.
29. Hepatitis B screening for non-pregnant adolescents and adults for hepatitis B virus
infection at high risk for infection; pregnant women at their first prenatal visit.
30. Hepatitis C screening for adults for hepatitis C virus infection at high risk
for infection.
31. Lung cancer screening for adults ages 55 to 80 who have a smoking history.
32. For self-administered hormonal contraceptives, you may receive up to a
12-month supply.
33. Tuberculosis and latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) for asymptomatic adults at
increased risk for infection.
34. Screening and counseling for interpersonal and domestic violence is a covered
service for adolescents, women, and women of childbearing age at least
annually, and, when needed, those who screen positive are provided or referred
to initial intervention services. Mental health is an initial intervention service after
screening for interpersonal and domestic violence.
35. Statin use for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease in adults – The
USPSTF recommends that adults without a history of cardiovascular disease
(CVD) (i.e., symptomatic coronary artery disease or ischemic stroke) use a low-
to moderate-dose statin for the prevention of CVD events and mortality when
all of the following criteria are met: 1) they are ages 40 to 75; 2) they have one
or more CVD risk factors (i.e., dyslipidemia, diabetes, hypertension or smoking);
and 3) they have a calculated 10-year risk of a cardiovascular event of 10% or
greater. Identification of dyslipidemia and calculation of 10-year CVD event risk
requires universal lipids screening in adults ages 40 to 75. Statin medications are a
pharmacy benefit.Blue Shield of California is an independent member of the Blue Shield Association CHI14295-AB1316 (12/17) The Diabetes Prevention Program is provided by Solera Health, an independent company.
Blue Shield and the Shield symbol are registered trademarks of the BlueCross BlueShield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans.
These are Blue Shield of California’s Preventive Health Guidelines, which are based on nationally recognized guidelines. Members must refer to their Evidence of Coverage or Certificate
of Insurance or Policy for plan/policy coverage of preventive health benefits.