Why December Is the Perfect Time to Schedule Your Cancer Screenings
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Between holiday gatherings, year-end errands, and plans for the new year, it's easy to push your own health to the bottom of the list. But December is actually one of the best times to schedule your cancer screenings. Whether you're due for a mammogram, lung cancer screening, or routine bloodwork, getting checked before the new year can make a major difference in your long-term health.
At this point in the year, even small health decisions can make a big impact. That's why we asked Sheetal L. Higbee, MD, at the Archbold Cancer Center in Thomasville, to explain why you shouldn't let December pass by without scheduling your recommended cancer screenings.
A Healthy New Year Starts Now
There's something about December that encourages reflection—looking back on the past year and thinking ahead about the next. According to Dr. Higbee, that makes this time of year a powerful checkpoint for your health.
"Screenings are one of the most effective tools we have for detecting cancer early, when it's most treatable," says Dr. Higbee. "If you've put off a screening this year, December is an ideal time to get back on track."
For many individuals across South Georgia, the end of the year also brings one big advantage: insurance benefits may reset in January, which means now could be the most cost-effective time to complete screenings you're already covered for.
Why December Is an Ideal Time for Screenings
Insurance Benefits Often Reset in January
Most insurance plans restart on January 1. If you've already met your deductible, screenings done now may cost less or even be fully covered.
"I always encourage patients to check their insurance benefits," says Dr. Higbee. "If you've met your deductible, completing screenings in December often makes financial sense."
Early Detection Saves Lives
Screenings help detect cancers before symptoms appear. And the earlier the diagnosis, the better the outcomes, especially with breast, colorectal, cervical, prostate, and lung cancers.
"When we find cancer early, treatment is often simpler, less intensive, and more effective," Dr. Higbee explains. "That's why routine screenings are so important."
It's Easier to Get Appointments
Because many people postpone health visits until after the holidays, December schedules at clinics throughout Thomasville and South Georgia may have more appointment availability.
A Mental Reset for the New Year
Taking care of your screenings now means you can enter the new year feeling informed, empowered, and proactive about your health.
Common Cancer Screenings to Schedule Before the Year Ends
Here are the major cancer screenings adults should consider, depending on their age and risk level. Some are recommended yearly, while others are performed every few years. Your primary care provider can help you determine the right schedule based on your health history and personal risk factors.
- Mammogram (breast cancer)
- Colonoscopy or stool-based test (colon cancer)
- Low-dose CT scan (lung cancer for smokers/former smokers)
- Pap test or HPV test (cervical cancer)
- PSA blood test (prostate cancer)
- Skin check (skin cancer)
- Bloodwork and routine labs, if recommended by your provider
Ready to Schedule? Here's What to Do Next
Takin the next step is simple. Reach out to your primary care provider to confirm which screenings you need. From there, your provider can assist you in scheduling your cancer screenings at the nearest Archbold facility.
If you don't have an established primary care provider, Archbold offers several convenient options across South Georgia, including:
