When you first enroll in Medicare Part B you have a one time introductory visit known as the “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit for $0, as well as a yearly wellness visit. Let me explain how this works and why you should take advantage of it.

$0 Welcome to Medicare

This $0 Medicare beneficiary preventive visit includes a review of your medical and social history related to your health and education. You will receive counseling about preventive services including certain screenings, shots, and referrals for other care, if it is deemed necessary. This visit is only offered during the first 12 months after you signed up for Medicare Part B. The following are a few things to expect at your “Welcome to Medicare” visit:

  • Height, weight, and blood pressure measurements
  • A calculation of your body mass index
  • A simple vision test
  • A review of your potential risk for depression and your level of safety
  • A written plan letting you know which screenings, shots, and other preventive services you need

Yearly “Wellness” Visits

On top of your initial first year visit, every year you get a $0 wellness visit. Don’t worry if you missed the “Welcome to Medicare,” you are still eligible -as long as you have had Medicare Part B for longer than 12 months, you can get this visit. The only stipulation is that your last wellness visit must have been at least 11 months prior.

The purpose of this visit is to help prevent disease and disability based on your current health and risk factors future health issues. First thing you will do is fill out a questionnaire, called a “Health Risk Assessment.” As well as you will do the following:

  • A review of your medical and family history
  • Developing or updating a list of current providers and prescriptions
  • Height, weight, blood pressure, and other routine measurements
  • Detection of any cognitive impairment
  • Personalized health advice
  • A list of risk factors and treatment options for you
  • A screening schedule (like a checklist) for appropriate preventive services.

Additional Costs During Preventive Visits

As long as you see a doctor that accepts Medicare assignment all of your preventive services are covered at $0. Sometimes on these visits your doctor will determine that you need other services that aren’t covered under preventive care. If this happens, you will be responsible for your Part B coinsurance and deductible. If you have Medigap, your Part B coinsurance is covered, as well as some comprehensive Medigap plans cover the deductible.

For further questions about Medicare’s preventive visits call the number above or contact Senior65.com.