As you navigate your Medicare journey, it’s important to understand the wide range of preventive services covered by Medicare. These services are designed to help you stay healthy, detect potential health issues early, and avoid more serious medical conditions down the road. By taking advantage of these benefits, you can play an active role in your health and well-being.

What Are Preventive Services?

Preventive services are medical tests, screenings, vaccines, and counseling designed to prevent illnesses, detect conditions early when they are most treatable, and keep you healthy. Medicare covers a variety of preventive services under Original Medicare. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C), your plan is required to cover all the services that Original Medicare covers, but it may also offer additional benefits or have different rules for accessing these services. Always check with your specific plan to understand how preventive services are covered under Medicare Advantage.

Key Preventive Services Covered by Medicare

  1. Annual Wellness Visit
  2. Medicare offers a yearly "Wellness Visit" to develop or update your personalized prevention plan. This visit includes a review of your medical and family history, measurements of vital signs, and screenings for cognitive impairments. Your healthcare provider may also discuss risk factors and recommend further tests or lifestyle changes to maintain your health.
  3. Screening Mammograms
  4. For women aged 40 and over, Medicare covers an annual screening mammogram. This test is crucial for detecting breast cancer early, improving the chances of successful treatment. Early detection is key, and regular mammograms can save lives.
  5. Cardiovascular Disease Screenings
  6. Medicare covers cardiovascular disease screenings every five years. These screenings help detect conditions like high cholesterol, which can lead to heart disease if left untreated. Knowing your numbers allows you to make informed decisions about your diet, exercise, and treatment options.
  7. Colorectal Cancer Screenings
  8. Medicare covers several types of colorectal cancer screenings, including fecal occult blood tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and colonoscopy. These screenings are important for detecting colorectal cancer early when treatment is most effective. Depending on your risk factors, your doctor will recommend the appropriate test for you.
  9. Vaccinations
  10. Medicare covers vaccinations for flu, pneumonia, hepatitis B, and, more recently, COVID-19. Vaccinations are essential for preventing serious illnesses, particularly in older adults who may be more vulnerable to complications from these diseases.
  11. Bone Mass Measurements
  12. If you're at risk for osteoporosis, Medicare covers bone mass measurements every two years. These tests help detect osteoporosis early, so you can take steps to protect your bones and reduce your risk of fractures.
  13. Diabetes Screenings
  14. Medicare covers diabetes screenings for people at risk of developing the condition. Early detection of diabetes or prediabetes allows you to make lifestyle changes that can prevent or delay the onset of the disease, helping you maintain a better quality of life.
  15. Depression Screenings
  16. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Medicare covers annual depression screenings, which can be conducted during your annual wellness visit. Early detection of depression can lead to timely treatment, improving your overall well-being.

For a full list of services, you can visit Medicare’s Preventive Services Chart to ensure you're aware of what’s covered.

Why You Should Use These Services

Taking advantage of Medicare’s preventive services is a smart way to maintain your health. Regular screenings can catch potential issues before they become serious, allowing for more effective and less invasive treatments. Vaccinations protect you from debilitating illnesses, and wellness visits help you stay on top of your health needs. By using these services, you’re not just taking care of your body—you’re investing in your future.

How to Get Started

To get started with preventive services, schedule your annual wellness visit with your healthcare provider. During this visit, discuss which preventive services are appropriate for you based on your age, health status, and family history. Make sure your provider accepts Medicare, so you don’t incur unnecessary costs. If you’re unsure what’s covered or how often you should get screened, you can consult the Medicare website or check the Preventive Services Guide for more information.

Taking proactive steps today can lead to a healthier tomorrow. Don’t miss out on the valuable benefits that Medicare offers—start prioritizing your preventive care now.

If you’re interested in learning more about how to make the most of your Medicare benefits, join our Medicare classes on GetSetUp. We offer a range of courses that can help you navigate your healthcare options and stay informed about the services available to you.

Reviewed By: Keith Gilbert