Many people think of Medicare as a program with premiums, deductibles, and copays. However, did you know that Medicare provides a variety of services completely free of charge? These benefits, particularly those related to preventive care, can help you stay healthier longer and potentially save you money on future medical expenses.
Understanding and taking advantage of these no-cost services is a smart way to maximize your Medicare coverage. Below, we explore the most valuable services Medicare provides at no extra cost, who qualifies, and how you can use them.
1. Welcome to Medicare Preventive Visit
New to Medicare? If you have enrolled in Medicare Part B within the last 12 months, you’re entitled to a Welcome to Medicare preventive visit. This one-time checkup helps establish a health baseline and includes:
- A review of your medical history
- Measurements such as height, weight, and blood pressure
- An assessment of potential risk factors for disease
- Guidance on preventive screenings and immunizations
How to use it: Schedule an appointment with a doctor who accepts Medicare. You won’t pay anything for this visit if your provider accepts assignment. Learn more about this benefit on the Medicare website.
2. Annual Wellness Visit
After your initial Welcome visit, Medicare covers an Annual Wellness Visit every 12 months. This is not a full physical exam, but rather an opportunity to update your health risk assessment and create a personalized prevention plan.
What’s included?
- A review of your medical history
- Cognitive impairment screening
- Blood pressure, height, weight, and BMI measurements
- A personalized wellness plan
How to use it: Medicare covers this visit for free as long as you’ve had Part B coverage for at least 12 months.
3. Preventive Screenings
Medicare covers a variety of screenings at no extra cost to detect diseases early. These include:
- Cardiovascular disease screenings (cholesterol and lipid levels)
- Diabetes screenings (up to two per year if at risk)
- Cancer screenings:
- Mammograms – once a year for women over 40
- Cervical cancer screenings – every two years (or annually for high-risk women)
- Colorectal cancer screenings – frequency depends on your risk level (colonoscopy, stool tests, etc.)
- Lung cancer screening – yearly for certain high-risk individuals
How to use it: Speak with your doctor to determine which screenings are right for you. For a full list of covered preventive screenings, visit Medicare’s preventive services page.
4. Vaccinations
Medicare covers several important vaccines at no cost, helping protect you from serious illnesses:
- Flu shots – one per season
- Pneumococcal vaccine – two shots, one year apart
- Hepatitis B vaccine – for those at high risk
- Shingles and Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis) vaccines – covered under Medicare Part D plans
How to use it: Medicare Part B covers flu, pneumonia, and hepatitis B vaccines fully, while shingles and Tdap vaccines are covered under Part D. Check with your provider to ensure you’re up to date.
5. Bone Mass Measurements (Osteoporosis Screening)
Osteoporosis is a major health concern for older adults, especially postmenopausal women. Medicare covers a bone density test every two years for those at risk, helping diagnose and manage osteoporosis before it leads to fractures.
How to use it: If you’re at risk for osteoporosis, ask your doctor if this screening is right for you. Learn more here.
6. Mental Health and Addiction Services
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Medicare covers:
- Annual depression screenings – available in a primary care setting
- Alcohol misuse screenings and counseling – for those who consume alcohol excessively
- Tobacco cessation counseling – up to 8 sessions per year to help you quit smoking
How to use it: Take advantage of these services by speaking to your healthcare provider. Find details on Medicare’s mental health coverage herehttps://www.medicare.gov/coverage/mental-health-care-outpatient.
7. Nutrition Therapy Services
If you have diabetes or kidney disease, Medicare covers nutrition therapy, including:
- Personalized dietary counseling
- Meal planning assistance
- Education on managing your condition through diet
How to use it: A doctor must refer you for this service
8. Obesity Screening and Counseling
Obesity is linked to a variety of health problems, from heart disease to diabetes. Medicare covers:
- Obesity screening for beneficiaries with a BMI of 30 or higher
- Behavioral therapy sessions for weight loss
How to use it: Ask your primary care provider about weight-loss counseling if you qualify.
9. HIV Screenings
HIV screenings are available for:
- Individuals aged 15-65
- Those at increased risk
- Pregnant women
How to use it: If you qualify, Medicare covers this screening for free. Learn more here.
Final Thoughts: Take Advantage of These Free Benefits
Medicare offers much more than just hospital and doctor visit coverage—it provides essential preventive services at no cost to keep you healthy. By proactively using these benefits, you can detect potential health issues early and take steps to maintain a higher quality of life.
Want to learn more about Medicare’s preventive services? Visit the official Medicare website for a full breakdown of covered services.
