What If I’m Due for a Routine Screening Like a Colonoscopy or Mammogram — Should I Wait Until After the Plan Starts?

If You Haven’t Met Your Current Deductible

It often makes sense to wait until after your new plan starts (e.g., January 1) to schedule routine screenings like colonoscopies or mammograms. Under the Self Fund Health plan, many screenings can be fully covered at $0 through preferred providers, which can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs compared to getting them done before the new plan year begins.

If You’ve Already Met Your Current Deductible

If you’ve already met your health plan deductible and out-of-pocket maximum for the year, it may make sense to complete your screenings before the plan switches. That way, the cost should be fully covered under your current plan, and you won’t reset your deductible early under the new plan.

Other Considerations

• Provider access: If your preferred provider is already scheduled far out, it might be easier to get the appointment on the books now rather than waiting for the new plan year.
• Network differences: If your current provider isn’t in-network with the new plan, finishing the screening under your current coverage may avoid network transition issues.
• Urgency: If the screening is clinically due now, don’t delay it unnecessarily—timely preventive care matters.

Bottom line:

• Haven’t met deductible: It’s usually better to wait until after the new plan starts to save money.
• Already met deductible: Doing it now may make financial sense.
• Edge cases: Consider access, network, and medical timing when deciding.