Preventive care can help people stay informed about their health and identify certain conditions earlier. Medicare Part B covers a range of eligible preventive and screening services, subject to program rules.

Examples of preventive services

Depending on eligibility and coverage rules, Medicare may cover screenings, certain vaccines, counseling, and wellness visits. Examples include some cancer screenings, diabetes screenings, and cardiovascular risk services.

Welcome to Medicare visit

Eligible beneficiaries may receive a one-time “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit during the first 12 months of Part B enrollment. It focuses on reviewing health history and planning preventive care; it is not a comprehensive physical exam.

Yearly Wellness visit

Eligible beneficiaries may receive a yearly Wellness visit to develop or update a personalized prevention plan. It is different from a routine physical exam.

Will preventive care always cost nothing?

Many covered preventive services have no cost-sharing when program requirements are met and the provider accepts assignment. However, additional tests, diagnostic services, or services outside the preventive benefit may lead to charges.

How to prepare

Before your appointment, ask the provider which service is being billed and whether it is covered as preventive care. Bring your medication list, medical history, and questions about recommended screenings.

Final thoughts

Preventive services are an important part of understanding your health coverage, but eligibility and frequency rules vary by service.

Important: This article is educational. Review current details at Medicare.gov and discuss care decisions with your health care professional.