Winter Health Screenings: Why December Is the Perfect Time to Prioritize Your Wellness
December 17, 2025As the year winds down and holiday plans fill the calendar, December may not be the first month that comes to mind for scheduling health screenings. But this season is actually one of the best times to catch up on preventive care, and doing so can help you start the new year with confidence, clarity, and peace of mind.
From checking on your heart health to completing cancer screenings, winter is the ideal moment to make your health a priority.
Why December Is an Ideal Month for Preventive Screenings
- Make the Most of Your Insurance Benefits
For many patients, deductibles reset in January. If you’ve already met your deductible for the year, December screenings may cost significantly less than waiting until the new year. - Use Remaining FSA or HSA Funds
If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), those dollars may expire at the end of the year. Preventive care is a smart way to use remaining funds. - Holiday Downtime = Appointment Opportunities
With school breaks, flexible work schedules, and quieter office rhythms, December can offer a little more breathing room, making it easier to fit in appointments. - Start the New Year Feeling Empowered
A fresh year is easier to embrace when you know you’re taking good care of your health. Preventive screenings give you confidence and help catch small concerns before they become bigger issues.
🩺 Recommended Winter Screenings by Age Group 🩺
Preventive care looks different at each stage of life. Here are the screening recommendations most patients should discuss with their primary care provider:
Blood Pressure Check
Even young, healthy adults can develop hypertension. Annual checks help catch it early.
Cholesterol Screening
Typically recommended starting in your 20s or earlier, with family risk factors.
Diabetes Screening
Especially important if you have a family history, elevated BMI, or symptoms like fatigue or increased thirst.
Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Test/HPV Test)
Usually every 3–5 years, depending on age and previous results.
Annual Wellness Visit
A yearly check-in helps establish healthy habits and identify changes early.
Mammograms (starting at age 40)
Breast cancer is most treatable when found early, making regular screenings essential.
Colon Cancer Screening (starting at age 45)
Options include colonoscopy or less-invasive stool-based tests. Your PCP can help determine the best choice and when you should begin getting screened.
Cholesterol & Diabetes Screening
Risks increase with age, annual testing helps keep your numbers on track.
Blood Pressure Monitoring
High blood pressure is a leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
Prostate Screening (for men, based on discussion with PCP)
Shared-decision screening typically begins in the 40s or 50s, depending on risk.
Annual Wellness Visit
A vital preventive tool for staying ahead of emerging health concerns.
Bone Density Test
Helps detect osteoporosis and reduce fracture risk.
Hearing and Vision Screenings
Changes are common with age and easy to miss without evaluation.
Diabetes, Cholesterol & Blood Pressure Checks
These screenings help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney issues.
Cancer Screenings
Mammograms, prostate cancer screenings, and colon cancer screenings continue depending on health status and individual risk.
Medicare Annual Wellness Visit
A comprehensive yearly visit to review medications, fall risk, cognitive health, and chronic conditions.
The Power of Preventive Care
Health screenings are more than checkboxes, they’re an investment in your long-term wellbeing. Many conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, and cancer, show no symptoms at first. Screenings allow your care team to detect issues early, when treatment is most effective.
Your Primary Care Provider Is Your Guide to Winter Wellness
Preventive care doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Your primary care provider (PCP) can help you:
- Understand which screenings you need
- Review your personal and family medical history
- Schedule tests at the right time
- Prevent small concerns from becoming bigger issues
- Build a wellness plan for the year ahead
Scheduling a visit now is a simple way to give yourself a healthy start to 2026.
❄️ Make Your Health a Priority Before the Year Ends ❄️
This winter, take a moment to care for yourself. By completing your screenings now, you’re not just preparing for the year ahead; you’re actively protecting your long-term health.
Your St. Mary’s care team is here to support you every step of the way, whether you’re due for a wellness visit or just need help understanding which screenings are right for you. A healthier new year begins with today’s choices. Schedule your winter wellness visit and step confidently into 2026.