With the end of the year approaching quickly, thoughts turn to Holiday parties, gift giving and family time. As you consider gifts for your family and friends, remember to think about something for yourself as well. Taking advantage of the preventive health benefits you receive through Medicare is the perfect gift to give yourself. Seeing a health care provider for screenings and an annual visit is an important step to ensure good health in the coming year.
Medicare Part B pays for many preventive health services and screenings which can be the key to good health as you begin 2021. An important appointment to schedule is the Annual Wellness Visit. This visit provides an opportunity to talk with the doctor about specific health and risk factors and set up a plan for preventive health screenings.
Screenings such as Mammograms, Colon-oscopies, Pap tests and PSA tests are important to have done regularly to ensure signs of abnormalities are discovered early, when treatment is most effective. The flu shot and Pneumonia shot are also important tools for good health. These screenings and vaccinations are covered without a deductible and co-payment charge.
In addition, screenings such as cardiovascular screenings, bone mass measurement, diabetes screening and lung cancer screening are covered at no charge for those who meet certain criteria. Your health care provider will let you know which screenings, tests and vaccinations are right for you.
More information about the preventive tests/screenings covered by Medicare can be found in the Medicare and You 2021 handbook or on the Medicare website (www.medicare.gov). For local assistance with Medicare questions or other benefits contact Cathy Duesterhoeft, Department of Aging, Elder Benefit Specialist, 920-787-0402.
So, as you plan to celebrate the season, remember to give yourself the gift of health.
