Your Quarterly Medicare Newsletter: Medicare Screenings to Schedule

Medicare Screenings to Schedule

In this issue, we take a look at special visits and screenings provided by Medicare.

The "Welcome to Medicare" Preventive Visit

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) offers its new enrollees the "Welcome to Medicare" preventive visit. This service is tailored to help those newly enrolled in Medicare Part B take proactive steps to maintain their health. It involves a comprehensive assessment and education on preventive strategies, rather than a physical exam, and serves as a detailed evaluation with your healthcare provider.¹

This preventive visit is fully covered under Medicare Part B. Eligible beneficiaries can use this service once during the first year of their Part B enrollment.

During the "Welcome to Medicare" preventive visit, your healthcare provider will:

• Review Medical and Social History: Your provider will examine your medical history and any social factors that may influence your health.
• Provide Information on Preventive Services: You'll receive details on preventive services, including necessary screenings and recommended immunizations, such as flu and pneumococcal vaccines.
• Conduct a Risk Assessment: Your provider will evaluate your risk factors for substance use disorders, such as alcohol and tobacco use, and depression. Referrals for further treatment will be made if necessary.
• Make Referrals for Additional Care: Referrals for additional medical care will be provided if needed.
• Calculate Body Mass Index (BMI): Your BMI will be calculated during the health assessment.
• Perform a Vision Test: A basic vision test will be conducted.
• Discuss Advance Directives: Your provider will offer to discuss creating advance directives, legal documents that outline your wishes for future medical treatment if you're unable to make decisions.
• Provide a Written Preventive Plan: You'll receive a written plan detailing the screenings, vaccines, and other preventive services you need.

When arranging your appointment, inform the doctor's office that you want the "Welcome to Medicare" preventive visit. Bring along your medical records, immunization history, family health history, and a list of any medications or supplements you take.

For beneficiaries whose providers accept assignment, there is no charge for the visit, and the Part B deductible does not apply. However, if additional tests or services not covered under this preventive benefit are performed during the visit, you may incur costs. It's essential to discuss any recommended additional services with your provider and verify what Medicare will cover to avoid unexpected expenses.

The "Welcome to Medicare" preventive visit is an essential step in managing your health as a new Medicare beneficiary. It offers an excellent chance to evaluate your current health status and prepare for a healthier future.

Medicare's Annual "Wellness" Visit

Medicare Part B offers coverage for an annual "Wellness" visit, a crucial preventive measure for beneficiaries designed to create or update a personalized health plan. This visit is not a physical exam; instead, it provides an opportunity to develop a strategy for preventing disease and disability based on your current health status and risk factors.²

During the "Wellness" visit, you will complete a "Health Risk Assessment" questionnaire to help you and your healthcare provider develop a customized prevention plan. The visit typically includes:

• Routine measurements like height, weight, and blood pressure
• Health advice and a review of your medical and family history
• An evaluation of your current medications
• Personalized health advice and advanced care considerations
• A schedule for appropriate preventive screenings
• An optional "Social Determinants of Health Risk Assessment" to identify social needs impacting treatment

Additionally, a cognitive assessment is performed to detect signs of dementia and other mental decline. If cognitive impairment is suspected, Medicare covers a separate, more thorough evaluation. For those with opioid prescriptions, a risk assessment for opioid use disorder and an evaluation of pain management strategies are also conducted, with referrals provided if necessary. Risks related to substance use disorders, including alcohol and tobacco use, are assessed, and treatment referrals are made if needed.

To be eligible for the annual "Wellness" visit, it must be scheduled at least 12 months after your Part B enrollment or your "Welcome to Medicare" preventive visit. The "Welcome to Medicare" visit is not required for eligibility.

There are no charges for the "Wellness" visit if your healthcare provider accepts assignment. The Part B deductible does not apply. However, coinsurance and the Part B deductible may apply if additional tests or services are performed that Medicare does not cover under this preventive benefit. For services not covered by Medicare, such as a routine physical exam, you may be responsible for the full cost.

The "Wellness" visit is available once every 12 months. It's recommended to discuss the costs of any tests, items, or services with your healthcare provider, especially if they suggest services that Medicare may not cover or that are offered more frequently than allowed. Specific costs depend on various factors, including additional insurance, your doctor's charges, whether your doctor accepts assignment, the type of facility, and the location of the service.

Medicare's annual "Wellness" visit is a proactive approach to maintaining health and preventing disease. By understanding what the visit includes and how it is covered, beneficiaries can make informed healthcare decisions and manage any potential out-of-pocket costs effectively.

Key 2026 Dates & Deadlines

September: Private plans send notice if there will be any change in cost, coverage, or service area
October 15: Medicare Open Enrollment Period begins
November: Flu season begins
December 7: Medicare Open Enrollment ends

<sup>1. Medicare.gov, February 23, 2026.
2. Medicare.gov, February 23, 2026.</sup>