Medicare is a federal insurance program for people over the age of 65 and people with certain disabilities. Like other insurance plans, the Medicare program is designed to keep costs down by encouraging healthy behaviors. As such, you may be able to access Medicare wellness benefits that will help keep you healthy.
Welcome to Medicare Physical Exam
When you become eligible for Medicare, you are entitled to a one-time physical examination as part of your Medicare wellness benefits. The examination will include a full review of your health history, as well as counseling to help you stay healthy. Your health care provider will also give you information regarding end-of-life issues, such as how to specify the type of health care you want, if any, if you become too ill to speak for yourself. These Medicare wellness benefits also prepare you to address health issues early if they arise.
Preventive Services
Medicare covers a number of screenings and other preventive services as part of your wellness benefits. These include bone mass management, colon cancer and diabetes screenings, mammograms, pap smears, flu and hepatitis shots, and glaucoma testing. Under Medicare Part B, which covers outpatient medical care, you are responsible for payment of certain deductible and co-payment charges. Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, covers at least the same Medicare wellness benefits as those offered under Part B, but may have different costs or requirements for accessing these benefits.
Disease Management
Medicare wellness benefits may also help you to manage existing health issues so that they do not worsen. These benefits may include diabetes self-management training, medical nutrition counseling and smoking cessation counseling.
Medicare wellness benefits such as these services, in addition to preventive efforts, are good for both you and the Medicare program. Preventive and early disease management save Medicare from paying the higher costs of treating you for more severe health problems, and save you from unnecessary suffering and treatment.
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