Medicare Part B offers a range of preventive services that beneficiaries can receive annually at no out-of-pocket cost, provided the healthcare provider accepts assignment. These services are designed to detect health issues early and promote overall wellness. Here are 12 such services:
- Annual Wellness Visit (AWV): A yearly appointment to develop or update a personalized prevention plan based on your current health and risk factors.
- Influenza Vaccine: An annual flu shot to protect against seasonal influenza.
- Pneumococcal Vaccine: Vaccination to prevent pneumococcal infections, with frequency depending on individual health status.
- Mammogram Screening: Annual screening mammograms for women aged 40 and over to detect breast cancer early.
- Colorectal Cancer Screening: Various tests, such as fecal occult blood tests annually, to detect colorectal cancer early.
- Cardiovascular Disease Screening: Blood tests every five years to check cholesterol and other lipid levels.
- Diabetes Screening: Up to two screenings per year for individuals at high risk for diabetes.
- Bone Mass Measurement: Once every two years for individuals at risk of osteoporosis.
- Depression Screening: Annual screening for depression in a primary care setting.
- Hepatitis C Screening: One-time screening for adults born between 1945 and 1965, and others at high risk.
- HIV Screening: Annual screening for individuals at increased risk, with more frequent screenings for certain populations.
- Obesity Screening and Counseling: Screening for obesity and counseling sessions to promote weight loss for those with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher.
It’s important to note that while these services are covered without cost-sharing, any additional tests or services performed during the same visit that are not covered under preventive benefits may incur charges. Always consult with your healthcare provider to understand which services are covered and if any additional costs may apply.
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For comprehensive information on Medicare’s preventive services, you can consult the following official resources:
- Medicare Preventive Services Quick Reference Chart: This chart provides a detailed overview of covered preventive services, including eligibility and frequency.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
- Medicare Coverage of Preventive and Screening Services: An official guide detailing the preventive services covered by Medicare, including exams, shots, lab tests, and screenings.
- Your Guide to Medicare Preventive Services: A comprehensive booklet that describes the preventive services Medicare covers, including costs and eligibility.
- Medicare Annual Wellness Visit Information: Details about the Annual Wellness Visit, including what to expect and how to prepare.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
- Staying Healthy with Medicare: A booklet that describes the preventive services that Medicare covers, including exams, shots, lab tests, and screenings.
These resources offer detailed information to help you understand and utilize the preventive services available through Medicare.