As a Medicare recipient, you have access to a wide range of preventative services to help you maintain your health and catch potential issues early. Here are some of the services covered under Medicare:
1. Cancer Screenings
Cancer can be scary, but catching it early can make a big difference in your treatment and prognosis. Medicare covers a variety of preventative screenings for cancer, including:
- Colorectal cancer screenings: Medicare covers several types of screenings for colorectal cancer, including fecal occult blood tests, flexible sigmoidoscopies, and colonoscopies. Depending on your age and risk factors, you may be eligible for these screenings at no cost to you.
- Breast cancer screenings: Women over the age of 40 are eligible for a mammogram every 12 months under Medicare, and those at high risk may be eligible for additional screenings at no cost.
- Prostate cancer screenings: Men over the age of 50 are eligible for a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test every 12 months under Medicare, and those at high risk may be eligible for additional screenings at no cost.
- Lung cancer screenings: Medicare covers an annual low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan for people who are at high risk of developing lung cancer due to a history of smoking.
2. COVID-19 Booster Vaccinations
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, it’s important to protect yourself with the latest information and vaccinations.
Medicare covers COVID-19 booster vaccinations for eligible individuals, including those who have already received the initial doses of the vaccine. Booster shots are recommended for people who are at higher risk of COVID-19 exposure or have weaker immune systems, such as older adults and those with underlying medical conditions.
The cost of the COVID-19 booster vaccination is fully covered by Medicare, including both the vaccine itself and any administration fees.
You can receive the booster shot at a variety of locations, including doctor’s offices, pharmacies, and community health centers. Talk to your healthcare provider about your eligibility for the COVID-19 booster vaccination and how you can get protected.
3. Diabetes Screenings
Diabetes is a growing concern in the United States, but regular screenings can help catch it early and manage it effectively. Medicare covers several types of diabetes screenings, including blood glucose tests and HbA1c tests. These tests can help identify if you are at risk for diabetes, allowing for early intervention and prevention.
4. Cardiovascular Screenings
Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States, but regular screenings can help catch it early and prevent further complications.
Medicare covers several types of cardiovascular screenings, including blood pressure and cholesterol tests. These tests can help identify if you are at risk for heart disease, allowing for early intervention and prevention.
5. Bone Density Screenings
Osteoporosis is a common concern for many people, especially women over the age of 65. Medicare covers bone density screenings every two years for people who are at risk of developing osteoporosis.
These screenings can help identify any bone loss, allowing for early intervention and prevention of fractures.
6. Depression Screenings
Mental health is an important aspect of overall health, and Medicare covers screenings for depression to help identify any potential concerns.
Screenings can be done annually and are covered at no cost to you. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, talking to your doctor and getting treatment can make a big difference in your quality of life.
7. Smoking Cessation Services
Smoking is a major risk factor for a variety of health concerns, including cancer and heart disease. Medicare covers smoking cessation counseling and interventions to help you quit smoking.
Services can include counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, and other medications to help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
8. Obesity Screening and Counseling
Obesity is a growing concern in the United States, and Medicare covers screenings and counseling services to help you manage your weight and prevent further health complications.
Medicare covers body mass index (BMI) screenings annually, which can help identify if you are at risk for obesity.
If you are found to be overweight or obese, Medicare also covers counseling services to help you develop a plan to manage your weight and improve your overall health.
Dietary counseling, exercise programs, and other lifestyle interventions can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Taking advantage of these services can help you improve your overall health and prevent further health complications associated with obesity, such as diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.
9. Hepatitis B and C Screenings
Hepatitis B and C are viral infections that can cause serious liver damage if left untreated.
Medicare covers screenings for both hepatitis B and C for people at high risk, including those who have a history of drug use, received blood transfusions before 1992, or have chronic liver disease.
Screenings can help identify any signs of infection, allowing for early treatment and prevention of further liver damage.
If you test positive for hepatitis B or C, Medicare also covers follow-up testing, treatment, and counseling services to help manage the infection and prevent further complications.
Check With a Licensed Insurance Agent at My Medicare Network**
In addition to those described above, Medicare covers many other types of preventative screenings and services for eligible recipients.
Additionally, it is important to note that coverage of these preventative services and screenings covered by Medicare may depend on your health condition, age, and other factors.
To learn the types of preventative services that will be covered under your Medicare plan, contact a My Medicare Network representative for a consultation.
*Plan coverages may vary. Please speak with an agent to determine specifically what services your plan covers.
**Not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program