1. The "Welcome to Medicare" Physical 

For people whose Medicare Part B coverage began on or after January 1, 2005, Medicare  covers a one-time preventive physical exam. Note: This exam must occur within the first six months of enrolling in Part B. The physical includes:

• Blood pressure, height and weight check
• Electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Vision test
• Wellness education
• Other covered tests your physician orders

2. Cardiovascular Screening 

Medicare will now pay for cholesterol testing and related blood fat measurements.

3. Diabetes Screening  

For those at risk of diabetes, Medicare will now pay for up to two diabetes tests per year (Fasting Plasma Glucose Test). Medicare also covers certain supplies and self-management training to find and treat the disease.

These new benefits are in addition to the preventive benefits that were already available, including:

• Cancer Tests
  
  • Breast Cancer Screening (Mammograms)
  • Cervical and Virginal Cancer Screening
  • Colon Cancer Screening
  • Prostate Cancer Screening
    
• Immunizations 
   
  • Flu
  • Pneumococcal
  • Hepatitis B
    
• Bone Mass Measurement (for Osteoporosis)
   
• Glaucoma Screening 
   
  
• Education about unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking, inactivity and poor diet

For more information....

The "Stay Healthy" section of the official U.S. government Medicare website includes information on the preventive portion of Medicare coverage. You can also download an online brochure, "Guide to Medicare's Preventive Services." 

The U.S. Agency on Aging also offers an online brochure, "Facts About Preventive Benefits."

2005, Caresource Healthcare Communications