Welcome to Medicare - My Start to a Healthy Future

• What is the "Welcome to Medicare" preventive visit?

  A one-time free and easy benefit that helps you and your doctor plan for your health.

  The "Welcome to Medicare" preventive visit helps you and your doctor develop a personalized plan to prevent disease, improve your health, and help you stay well. A few things you should know:

  • It's free. There’s no copayment or deductible for the visit.
  • It’s easy to use this benefit. Just call your doctor when you sign up for Medicare. If you don't have a doctor, visit our directory of providers.
  • You can sign up for the visit during the first 12 months you have Medicare. After the first year, you can get a yearly “Wellness” visit for free.
  • It’s comprehensive. The visit includes a review of your medical history; preventive tests and screenings; and planning for a healthy future.
  • The visit is covered by Original Medicare (Part B) and Medicare Advantage Plans. Under the new healthcare law, the visit is now free to those with Original Medicare, and to most people with Medicare Advantage Plans, along with a number of preventive screenings and services (like mammograms and colonoscopies).

• What should I expect during the visit?

  A comprehensive physical and evaluation of your medical history.

  During the visit, your doctor will:

  • Record and evaluate your medical and family history, current health conditions, and prescriptions.
  • Check your blood pressure, vision, weight, and height to get a baseline for your care.
  • Make sure you're up-to-date with preventive screenings and services, such as cancer screenings and shots.
  • Order further tests, depending on your general health and medical history.

  Following the visit, your doctor will give you a plan or checklist with free screenings and preventive services that you need.

• What should I bring to my "Welcome to Medicare" preventive visit?

  Medical records, family health history and a list of prescription drugs.

  • Medical records, including immunization records. Even if your current doctor does the visit, gather as much medical information as you can to make sure nothing is overlooked.
  • Family health history. Try to learn as much as you can about your family's health history before your appointment. The information will help you and your doctor better understand what screenings you should get and what to watch for in the future.
  • Prescription drugs. Bring a list of any prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements that you currently take, how often you take them, and why.

  Don't delay. Schedule your “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit today!