Medicare gives health coverage to millions of Americans, but many don’t use all the benefits they can. Most people know Medicare helps with hospital stays and doctor visits, but it covers much more. It pays for preventive care, specialized treatments, and even medical equipment that can improve your quality of life. As research indicates, “many seniors are actually unaware of the cost savings they can enjoy from its many benefits.”
1. Annual Wellness Visits Keep You Healthy
After one year with Medicare Part B, you can get yearly wellness visits with your doctor. These are not just quick check-ups. The doctor will measure your vital signs and review your medical history. These visits help you spot health concerns before they become serious problems. This Medicare benefit serves as preventive healthcare.
- Your doctor takes your height, weight, and blood pressure
- You’ll complete a Health Risk form to identify potential problems
- The doctor checks for early signs of memory issues like Alzheimer’s
- These visits create a record of your health over time
- Problems caught early are often easier to treat
2. Free Disease Screenings
It’s always better to find health problems early. Medicare pays for many tests to catch diseases before they get worse. Prevention saves lives and reduces healthcare costs. These screenings are completely covered by your Medicare plan with no extra charges to you. Medicare tests include screenings for:
- HIV and other STDs
- Diabetes and heart disease
- Eye health (glaucoma)
- Many types of cancer (breast, cervical, colon, prostate)
- Depression and other mental health issues
3. Help with Weight Loss
Carrying extra weight can make health problems worse, especially as you get older. Medicare will pay for face-to-face meetings with a health coach if your BMI (Body Mass Index) is 30 or higher. These counseling sessions are designed specifically to address the unique challenges older adults face when trying to lose weight. Among Medicare benefits, this one often goes unused. In these counseling sessions, you’ll learn about:
- Healthy eating plans that work for seniors
- Safe ways to be more active
- Habit changes that lead to lasting weight loss
- How losing weight helps manage joint and bone problems
- Reducing your risk for diabetes and heart disease
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4. Help to Quit Smoking and Drinking
Breaking old habits is hard at any age. Medicare helps if you want to quit smoking or cut back on drinking. It’s never too late to improve your health. Many seniors are surprised to learn that making these changes later in life still provides significant health benefits. For smokers, Medicare pays for eight in-person counseling sessions each year. Medicare also covers one alcohol screening per year and up to four counseling sessions if your doctor recommends them.
Compared to other Medicare benefits, these addiction services can have some of the most significant impacts on longevity. Studies show that quitting smoking, even after age 65, can add years to your life. These services help you develop strategies to overcome addiction and improve your quality of life without additional cost.
5. Special Medical Equipment
Medicare helps pay for certain medical gear that can make life much better if you have health problems. These items can help you stay independent and avoid costly complications. The right equipment can make daily activities easier and prevent dangerous situations that might lead to hospital stays.
For people with diabetes, Medicare covers specialized footwear that can prevent serious foot problems. According to experts, “Medicare will pay for one pair of custom-molded shoes and inserts and a pair of extra-depth shoes if they’re prescribed and provided by a podiatrist or other qualified health professional.” Medicare also pays for mobility equipment like wheelchairs or scooters if your doctor certifies you need them. Many seniors don’t realize these Medicare benefits can dramatically improve their quality of life. What Medicare covers:
- Custom-made diabetic shoes and inserts
- Additional inserts each calendar year
- Mobility aids with proper prescription
- Potentially walk-in bathtubs (with medical necessity)
Research suggests that “if your doctor can attest that a walk-in bathtub is medically necessary, Medicare may cover the expenses.” These benefits can dramatically improve your quality of life and prevent costly complications like amputations or falls.
Making the Most of Your Medicare Benefits
Many people don’t know about all the services Medicare covers. Using these lesser-known benefits can save you money while keeping you healthier. Taking full advantage of your coverage requires being proactive about your healthcare. Medicare benefits are not automatic; you need to request them from your healthcare providers.
To get all your benefits, review your Medicare coverage annually. Discuss preventive services with your doctor and ask which benefits address your specific health needs. Remember that Medicare coverage rules change yearly. You’ve earned these Medicare benefits. By using all available services, you’ll maintain better health while protecting your finances in retirement. Check what your Medicare plan covers today.
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