Common Preventive Benefits People Miss

Medicare covers more than most people realize. Many beneficiaries use their basic benefits but unknowingly leave some of the most valuable preventive services on the table. Here are some of the most commonly missed preventive benefits and what you should know about each one.

The "Welcome to Medicare" Preventive Visit

If you are new to Medicare, this one-time visit is available within your first 12 months of having Part B, and many people never schedule it. It includes:

• A review of your health history and current medications

• A baseline assessment of your height, weight, blood pressure, and vision

• A referral for any screenings or preventive services you may need

• A one-time electrocardiogram (EKG) screening

This visit sets the foundation for your preventive care going forward. If you are in your first year of Medicare and have not scheduled this visit, contact your doctor today.

Cognitive Assessment

During your Annual Wellness Visit, Medicare covers a cognitive assessment to screen for early signs of dementia or Alzheimer's disease. If concerns are identified, Medicare also covers a separate follow-up evaluation at no additional cost. This is a benefit many beneficiaries and even some providers overlook, do not hesitate to ask for it during your wellness visit.

Depression Screening

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Medicare covers one depression screening per year at no cost in a primary care setting. Despite being widely available, this is one of the most underused preventive benefits. If you have been feeling persistently sad, anxious, or unlike yourself, talk to your doctor about scheduling this screening.

Diabetes Prevention Program

If you have pre-diabetes and meet eligibility requirements, Medicare covers the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program: a structured health behavior change program designed to help prevent Type 2 Diabetes. This program includes:

• 16 weekly sessions with a trained lifestyle coach

• Ongoing follow-up sessions to help you maintain healthy habits

• Options to attend in person, virtually, or both

Many beneficiaries with pre-diabetes are not aware that this program exists or that it is covered by Medicare. Ask your doctor if you may be eligible.

Tobacco Cessation Counseling

If you smoke or use tobacco, Medicare covers up to eight face-to-face counseling sessions per year at no cost to help you quit. This benefit is frequently overlooked but can have a significant impact on your long-term health and quality of life.

Medical Nutrition Therapy

If you have diabetes or kidney disease, Medicare covers medical nutrition therapy at no cost. This service connects you with a registered dietitian who can provide:

• A personalized nutritional assessment

• One-on-one and group counseling

• Guidance on how food choices impact your specific condition

This is a highly valuable benefit that many eligible beneficiaries never use.

Cardiovascular Behavioral Therapy

Medicare covers one cardiovascular behavioral therapy visit per year at no cost with your primary care provider. During this visit your doctor can discuss:

• Aspirin use if appropriate for your health

• Blood pressure management

• Diet and exercise tips to lower your risk of cardiovascular disease

Social Determinants of Health Risk Assessment

During your Annual Wellness Visit, you may be offered an optional Social Determinants of Health Risk Assessment. This assessment helps your provider understand factors in your life that may affect your health such as transportation, housing, food access, or social support and connect you to appropriate community resources. 

What To Do Next

The best way to make sure you are not missing any of these benefits is to:

• Schedule your Annual Wellness Visit if you have not already done so this year

• Ask your doctor which preventive services and programs you are eligible for

• Contact your SGIA Benefit Consultant to review your coverage and make sure you are getting the most out of your Medicare benefits

Your SGIA Benefit Consultant is here to help you every step of the way. Call us today at 888-284-3314 or visit sgiamedicare.com.