Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers a “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit once within the first 12 months you have Part B. This visit includes a review of your medical history and counseling about preventive services. There is no cost to you for the “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit if your doctor or other qualified health care provider accepts Medicare assignment. The Part B deductible doesn’t apply to your “Welcome to Medicare” physical.
You may have to pay coinsurance and the Part B deductible if:
- Your doctor or other health care provider performs additional tests or services during the same visit.
- These additional tests or services aren’t covered under the preventive benefits.
Your doctor or other health care provider may recommend you get services that Medicare doesn’t cover. If this happens, you may have to pay some or all of the costs. Don’t be afraid to ask questions so you understand what your doctor is recommending and if Medicare will pay for those services.
What you can expect:
- Certain screenings, flu, and pneumococcal shots, and referrals for other care, if needed.
- 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.
- An offer to talk with you about creating advance directives.
- A written plan letting you know which screenings, shots, and other preventive services you need. Get details about coverage for screenings, shots, and other preventive services.
