Medicare & Preventive Care: What’s Free?

Preventive care is a key part of staying healthy, and Medicare offers many free preventive services to help beneficiaries detect and prevent health issues early. Taking advantage of these benefits can lead to better health outcomes and lower medical costs in the long run. Let’s explore what Medicare covers at no cost and how you can make the most of your benefits.

What Preventive Services Does Medicare Cover for Free?

Medicare Part B covers a variety of preventive services at no cost to you, as long as you receive them from a provider who accepts Medicare. Here are some of the most important free services available:

1. Annual Wellness Visit

• Medicare covers an Annual Wellness Visit to assess your overall health and create a personalized prevention plan.

• Note: This is different from a full physical exam, which Medicare does not cover.

2. Screenings for Common Health Conditions

• Cardiovascular Disease Screening – Once every 5 years.

• Diabetes Screening – For those at risk, up to 2 screenings per year.

• Colorectal Cancer Screening – Includes colonoscopies, fecal tests, and flexible sigmoidoscopies.

• Breast Cancer Screening (Mammogram) – Once every 12 months for women age 40 and older.

• Prostate Cancer Screening – PSA test covered annually for men age 50+.

• Lung Cancer Screening – For those at high risk due to smoking history.

3. Vaccinations & Immunizations

• Flu Shot – Covered once per flu season.

• Pneumococcal Vaccines – Protects against pneumonia and other infections.

• Hepatitis B Vaccine – Covered for those at medium to high risk.

• COVID-19 Vaccines and Boosters – Fully covered.

4. Depression & Mental Health Screenings

• Depression Screening – Once per year.

• Alcohol Misuse Screening & Counseling – For those who show signs of alcohol dependency.

5. Bone Density Test

• Covered every 24 months for individuals at risk of osteoporosis.

6. Smoking & Tobacco Cessation Counseling

• Medicare covers counseling sessions to help beneficiaries quit smoking.

  
  

How to Take Advantage of Free Medicare Preventive Services

1. Schedule Your Annual Wellness Visit – This is a great time to discuss your health concerns and get recommendations for screenings.

2. Know Your Eligibility – Some screenings and tests are only covered if you meet specific criteria (e.g., age, risk factors).

3. Use In-Network Providers – To ensure services are covered, visit providers who accept Medicare.

4. Keep Track of Screening Schedules – Some tests are covered annually, while others have longer intervals.

   
   

Stay Healthy with Medicare’s Preventive Care Benefits

Medicare’s preventive care services are designed to help you stay proactive about your health. Regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations can detect problems early and improve long-term well-being.

Need help understanding your Medicare coverage? At Lindbergh and Associates, we’re here to guide you. Contact us today to ensure you’re making the most of your Medicare benefits!