Preventive Services

E-mail This Page

	Diabetes Screening, Supplies, and Self-Management Training

Diabetes Screening

Diabetes is a medical condition in which your body doesn't make enough insulin or has a reduced response to insulin. Diabetes causes your blood sugar to be too high because insulin is needed to use sugar properly. A high blood sugar level is not good for your health. For people with Medicare at risk for getting diabetes, Medicare covers a screening blood sugar test to check for diabetes. You are considered at risk if you have any of the following: high blood pressure, dyslipidemia (history of abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels), obesity, or a history of high blood sugar. Other risk factors may also qualify you for this test and based on the results, you may be eligible for up to two screenings each year. Medicare also covers certain supplies and self-management training to find and treat diabetes.

Diabetes Screening (Fasting Plasma Glucose Test) beginning January 1, 2005

How often is it covered?

You may be eligible for up to two screenings each year.

For whom?

Individuals at increased risk for diabetes that have any of the following: high blood pressure, dyslipidemia (history of abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels), obesity, or a history of high blood sugar.

Your costs in the Original Medicare Plan?

You pay nothing

Diabetes Glucose monitors, test strips, and lancets

For whom?

All people with Medicare who have diabetes

Your costs in the Original Medicare Plan?

You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after the yearly Part B deductible.

Diabetes Self-Management Training

For whom?

This training is for certain people with Medicare who are at risk for complications from diabetes. Your doctor must request this service.

Your costs in the Original Medicare Plan?

You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after the yearly Part B deductible.

Other Web Resources with Diabetes Information

Top of page