Why Biometric Screenings Matter

Biometric screening results provide a snapshot of key health indicators and can help identify potential risks for conditions like heart disease, stroke and diabetes. The real value comes from knowing what your numbers mean and how to use them to make informed decisions.

Reviewing your results with your doctor can help you pinpoint areas of focus and decide what steps to take next to improve your health and wellness.

Biometric screenings often include these measurements. Each one offers insight into a different aspect of your overall health:

• Blood pressure: High blood pressure can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. A reading below 120/80 mm Hg is considered normal. 
• Waist circumference: Carrying more weight around your midsection can raise the risk for type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
• Body mass index (BMI): BMI uses height and weight to estimate body fat and overall health risk. Higher BMI ranges are associated with increased risk for chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Cholesterol: LDL (“bad”) cholesterol can build up in arteries and cause health concerns, while HDL (“good”) cholesterol helps remove LDL from the bloodstream. Triglycerides—another type of fat—also play a role in heart health by storing excess energy. A combination of high triglyceride levels with high LDL or low HDL can increase the chance of heart attack or stroke.
• Blood glucose: Blood sugar levels help assess risk for prediabetes and diabetes. Screening tests such as A1C or fasting glucose can indicate when follow-up care may be needed.

Your biometric screening is a starting point—not a diagnosis. Talk with your primary care provider about your numbers and any changes you can make to improve or maintain your health. To find an in-network provider near you, visit umr.com.

Depending on your conversation with your provider, you can take advantage of the following university-sponsored benefits to make a meaningful difference: 

• Earn your $50 wellness benefit: If you’re enrolled in one of the UHC supplemental health insurance plans (Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity or Accident), earn your $50 wellness benefit by completing a range of screenings or tests.
• Fuel your health: With the MedEmpower Fuel app, you can create custom meal plans, track your A1C and blood pressure, and enroll in a clinical condition-management program to maintain a healthy weight and improve your health outcome. 
• Set fitness goals: Get active at home or at the gym with a One Pass Select membership. You can access live or on-demand fitness classes and a nationwide network of more than 11,000 gym locations.
• Start your weight-loss journey. If your BMI measures 23 or higher, you have access to no-cost support through Real Appeal, an online weight-loss program.

Remember to use your screening results to stay engaged with your health and support healthy habits year round. To explore more available wellness resources, visit uasys.edu/benefits.