The Life-Saving Benefits of Vascular Screenings
As we age, protecting our vascular health is just as important as monitoring our cardiac health, yet many people (including many cardiologists) completely overlook the vascular system and vascular screenings -- until it’s too late. The heart is of course part
of the vascular system, but the vascular system is much MORE than just the heart; it refers to the entire network of blood vessels throughout your body, the heart being the organ that pumps blood through those vessels. Many vascular diseases, separate and apart from heart disease, develop silently, showing no symptoms until they reach dangerous or even fatal stages. Fortunately, vascular screenings, though most people never get them, are available to most people for free to help detect serious
conditions early.
What Are Vascular Screenings?
There are many different types of vascular screenings -- they use non-invasive ultrasound technology to evaluate the health of your arteries and veins. Unlike traditional cardiac tests such as stress tests, cardiac catheterizations, and echocardiograms, which are done by cardiologists and focus solely on the heart, vascular screenings are done by specialized
vascular physicians and assess the entire vascular and circulatory system, helping detect:
- Carotid Artery Disease – Narrowing of the carotid arteries, which increases the risk of stroke.
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) – A condition affecting blood flow to the limbs, often leading to pain, numbness, or even amputations if untreated. According to the American Heart Association, more than 8.5 million Americans
have PAD, but many are unaware of their condition.
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) – A dangerous enlargement of the aorta that can rupture without warning, leading to life-threatening internal bleeding. According to a recent report about Abdominal Aortic
Aneurysms, the prevalence in the United States is estimated to be between 2-13% of men and around 6% of women over the age of 65, with the rate significantly increasing with age, particularly in males. Medicare pays for a one-time, AAA ultrasound screening is for people who have never received Medicare coverage for AAA screenings and who are at risk for an abdominal aortic aneurysm. You will not have to pay anything for having the abdominal aortic aneurysm screening done if you:
- Are
considered at risk for an abdominal aortic aneurysm
- Have a referral from your doctor (which is required) and
- Have the screening done by a medical professional that accepts Medicare.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – A blood clot in the veins, which can cause fatal pulmonary embolisms if it travels to the lungs. According to a recent article about Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is around 1 in 1000 people per year; meaning the lifetime risk of developing DVT is between 2-5%. This may be a relatively low prevalence, but the risk increases significantly with age and certain medical conditions.
The good news? Early detection and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications.
Who Should Get
Screened?
You should strongly consider a vascular screening if you:
✅ Are over age 60
✅ Have a history of high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol
✅ Smoke or have a history of smoking
✅ Have a family history of aneurysms or vascular disease
✅ Have leg pain, numbness, or swelling
These risk factors increase the likelihood of developing vascular
disease, making regular screenings an essential step in preventive healthcare.
Where to Get a Vascular Screening
Virginia Residents:
- The Vascular Services Team at Inova provides every type of vascular screening available and has 16
vascular interventional radiologists dedicated to theses screenings. Your insurance may or may not cover these screenings, depending on your family history and risk factors.
- As always, check with your doctor for a referral and more information.
Maryland Residents:
Washington, D.C. Residents:
The Legal and Financial Side of Vascular Health
As an elder law and estate planning attorney, I understand that medical emergencies can have
significant legal and financial implications. If a vascular screening detects a condition requiring ongoing care, do you have the right legal protections in place? Do you have:
At the Farr Law Firm, we help clients prepare for both expected and unexpected medical challenges. Being proactive about your health and legal planning ensures peace of mind for you and your family.
Take Control of Your Health – Get Screened Today
Vascular screenings are painless, quick, and often free or covered
by insurance. Don’t wait until symptoms appear—early detection can be life-saving.
Schedule your vascular screening today! Visit the links above or contact your healthcare provider to find a screening location near you.
Stay proactive. Stay prepared. Stay healthy.
From Your Friends at The Farr Law Firm
Notice: This newsletter is
published as a complimentary service of the Farr Law Firm. The information is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal questions, please consult with one of our experienced attorneys. We encourage you to share this newsletter with anyone who may benefit from it.
