Staying healthy isn’t just about feeling good—it’s one of the smartest ways to protect your finances as you age. Fortunately, Medicare makes it easier than ever to prioritize wellness through a wide range of preventive services. From annual checkups to important screenings, these services are designed to catch potential health issues early, helping you stay healthier and avoid costly treatments down the road.

Here’s what you need to know about what’s covered and how to take full advantage of these benefits.

Annual Wellness Visits: Your Yearly Health Roadmap

Once you’ve had Medicare Part B for longer than 12 months, you’re eligible for an Annual Wellness Visit at no cost to you (as long as your doctor accepts Medicare assignment). This isn’t a physical exam—it’s a conversation-based visit that helps you and your provider create or update a personalized prevention plan.

During the visit, you’ll review:

• Your medical history
• Current medications
• Risk factors for diseases
• Cognitive health
• Lifestyle habits

You’ll also work with your doctor to schedule any necessary screenings and vaccinations based on your age and risk profile. It’s a proactive step that sets the tone for your overall health strategy each year.

Screenings: Catching Issues Before They Become Problems

Medicare covers a long list of preventive screenings that are critical for detecting diseases early when they’re most treatable. Many of these are covered annually or at intervals based on risk factors.

Some common screenings include:

• Mammograms for breast cancer
• Colorectal cancer screenings (including colonoscopies)
• Diabetes screenings
• Cardiovascular disease screenings
• Prostate cancer screenings
• Bone mass measurements for osteoporosis

Most of these screenings are covered at no cost when provided by a doctor who accepts Medicare. Skipping these could mean missing a chance to catch something serious early, so staying on schedule is key.

Chronic Care Management: Support for Ongoing Conditions

If you’re living with one or more chronic conditions—such as diabetes, heart disease, or arthritis—Medicare may cover Chronic Care Management (CCM) services. These are coordinated care services provided outside of regular office visits to help you manage your health more effectively.

Benefits of CCM include:

• Regular check-ins with your care team
• Help with medication management
• Coordinated communication between your doctors
• Personalized care plans and goal setting

This service can help you stay on top of your condition and prevent complications that lead to hospitalizations or emergency care.

The Value of Staying Healthy to Avoid Larger Costs

Preventive care isn’t just good for your body—it’s good for your wallet. Treating advanced illnesses or managing serious complications can be costly and stressful. But by taking advantage of what Medicare offers—at no or low cost—you’re making a smart investment in your future health and independence.

At Hilgerman Insurance Solutions, we’re here to make sure you understand your Medicare benefits and how to use them to your full advantage. If you have questions about what’s covered, or need help scheduling services, we’re just a call away.

Take Action Today

• Schedule your Annual Wellness Visit
• Ask your doctor about upcoming screenings
• Explore Chronic Care Management if you have ongoing conditions

Your health is your most valuable asset—use your Medicare benefits to protect it.

Need help navigating Medicare? Contact Hilgerman Insurance Solutions for personalized guidance.

Hilgerman Insurance Solutions
www.HilgermanIns.com