Medicare: Preventive Care Can Be Essential for Health

Did you know that a “Welcome to Medicare” preventive care visit is possible within the first 12 months of having Part B? Regular preventive care can help maintain and help protect your health as you age. Under Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance), some types of preventive care are covered so that Medicare beneficiaries can plan for their future.

What is the meaning of preventive care?

Preventive care is the utilization of services that can help keep you healthy. It goes beyond vaccinations, to include screenings, tests, counseling, and other check-ups. Preventive care can help keep both your body and your mind in good condition.

How much does preventive care cost?

Under Medicare Part B, it can be possible to receive some preventive care at no cost to you depending on your eligibility, whether the doctor accepts assignment, and the frequency of treatment needed. Contact your plan to learn more about potential expenses.

Does Medicare cover preventive care?

Yes, Medicare Part B provides coverage for preventive care. Check with your primary care physician to see if you’re eligible for specific services.

Some examples of preventive care covered by Medicare Part B include:

Periodic Screenings:*

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm – one-time screening
• Bone mass measurements (bone density) – every 24 months or more often if medically necessary
• Cardiovascular disease – screenings every 5 years
• Colorectal cancer – screenings frequency varies depending on test and medical necessity
• Diabetes – screenings 2x per year depending on eligibility.
• Diabetes self-management – training varies depending on eligibility
• Hepatitis C screening – test one-time screening or yearly for certain high risk people
• Nutrition therapy – services
• Obesity – screenings & counseling

Yearly Screenings:

• Alcohol misuse screenings & counseling – every 12 months
• One-time “Welcome to Medicare” preventive care visit – every 12 months
• Lung cancer – screening every 12 months
• Sexually transmitted infections –  screening & counseling every 12 months or more often based upon eligibility
• HIV screening – every 12 months based upon eligibility
• Glaucoma tests – every 12 months for high risk people
• Depression screenings – every 12 months
• Cardiovascular disease (behavioral therapy) – once per year

Men:

• Prostate cancer screenings – every 12 months

Women:

• Cervical & vaginal cancer –  screening every 24 months or 12 months if medically necessary
• Mammograms (screening) – every 12 months of more often if medically necessary

Shots:

• Flu shot – once per flu season
• Hepatitis B shots
• Pneumococcal shots
• COVID-19 vaccines
• Tobacco use cessation counseling – 8 visits in a 12 month period
• Yearly “Wellness” visit –  every 12 months

HealthMarkets can help.

HealthMarkets can help you find a Medicare plan that includes preventive care. Start comparing your options online now, or you can call (800) 827-9990 to speak with a licensed insurance agent. If you prefer an in-person meeting, you can also find a licensed insurance agent near you.