Prevention After 40: Why Fall is the Best Time to Catch Up

Written By Joey Banks, MD

Now that it’s hard to tell who’s saying what — politicians, medical leaders, even the CDC sometimes sending mixed signals. So, many people are left wondering: who can I trust for health information? It isn’t very clear, even for those of us working inside the system. What I recommend is leaning on reputable, non-political sources that stay focused on patients, not politics. These groups give clear, updated guidance about screenings, vaccines, and prevention at different ages.  See below for some of my favorite sites!  

Get off TikTok for your medical advice- but keep liking us on socials.  

Haha!  I realize my own opposite thinking here.

The world feels unpredictable right now, and it can be hard to know who to believe. One thing that’s always worth your attention, though, is prevention and your inner wisdom on what is right for you in your medical journey. Keeping your screenings, vaccines, and wellness visits up to date helps you stay grounded in your health, even when everything else feels uncertain.

Most of us also realize toward the end of the year that if we’ve met our insurance deductible, it’s a good time to get things done before January. I am always But here’s the catch: doctors and providers take time off around the holidays, and appointments book up quickly. That’s why October and November are the best months to schedule your preventive care.

Some Montana Protips:

  • It can take 8–12 weeks to get a colonoscopy appointment

  • It can take 4 weeks or more to schedule an annual preventive visit

  • You can get most of your vaccines at local pharmacies

  • Many vaccines are available directly at pharmacies, and COVID vaccines are still an option if you qualify (many pharmacies only ask you to state that you do).

  • Specialists can book out 2-3 months, so don’t wait for that referral at the last minute

Most insurances cover annual wellness visits before your deductible, but as laws continue to change and insurance coverage options shift, it’s smart to stay as up to date as possible. 

And most importantly, prevention isn’t only about checklists. It’s also a time to reflect. 

What health goals do I want to focus on now? Setting intentions in the fall is often more powerful than waiting for New Year’s resolutions.

Mental Health as Prevention

Your mental and emotional health are just as important as your physical health. As the long days of summer shift into fall, it’s a good time to check in with yourself:

  • Do you want to reconnect with a therapist or counselor?

  • Do you have a mindfulness or meditation practice that helps steady you? Or do you want to learn one?

  • Are you making space for gratitude.  I often say to myself “ Is there even one or two things daily that I can name?

Preventive Care to Think About After 40

  • Colorectal cancer screening (colonoscopy, Cologuard, or FIT test)

  • Mammogram every 1–2 years (sooner if high risk) possible ABUS for dense breasts

  • Cervical cancer screening (Pap or HPV, depending on age/history)

  • Blood pressure check at least every 1–2 years

  • Cholesterol and diabetes screening every 2–3 years, more often if at risk

  • Skin check for new or changing moles

  • Dental cleaning and exam every 6 months

  • Eye exam every 1–2 years

  • Hep C screening if you have never have 

  • Dexa bone density at age 65 and maybe earlier for some populations

Vaccines to Stay Up to Date On After 40- I am still a believer.

  • Flu shot: every year in the fall

  • COVID vaccine: if eligible by health conditions or updated guidance- most people are eligible 

  • Tdap/Td: booster every 10 years (or sooner if you get a wound)

  • Shingles (Shingrix): two doses, starting at age 50

  • Pneumococcal vaccine: recommended starting at age 65, or earlier with certain health conditions

  • Hepatitis B or A: if you haven’t had the full series and are at risk

  • RSV for some populations and for those 75 yo

  • Maybe even HPV if you have not had before age 46!

Prevention isn’t just about avoiding illness — it’s about making your life sustainable, resilient, and whole. Sometimes the smallest step (like booking that appointment or jotting down a daily “grateful”) can make the biggest difference down the road. 

Peace and gratitude for you,   Dr Joey      

 (with recommended sites as promised)

Joey Banks, MD

Dr. Joey Banks, MD, is a board-certified family physician and co-founder of Inner Journey Healthcare. With over two decades of experience in medicine and a deep commitment to integrative care, Dr. Banks blends clinical expertise with a holistic, patient-centered approach. Her work bridges the gap between mental and physical health, offering thoughtful medical guidance and supporting innovative treatments like ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. At the heart of her practice is a belief in compassionate, collaborative healing.

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