What types of medical interventions might be considered preventive services?

Preventive services are designed to help individuals avoid illness or detect health issues early before they develop into more serious conditions. This definition primarily encompasses interventions that promote health and prevent disease, which includes various types of vaccinations and health screenings. Vaccinations are critical in preventing infectious diseases, while health screenings can identify potential health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or certain types of cancer at an early stage when they are more manageable.

In contrast, urgent care visits usually address immediate medical issues rather than preventive care. Emergency surgeries are performed in response to life-threatening situations or severe health crises, making them reactive rather than preventive. Rehabilitation therapies focus on recovering from existing conditions or injuries and do not serve the primary purpose of preventing disease. Therefore, choosing vaccinations and health screenings aligns precisely with the aim of preventive services.