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One-time "Welcome to Medicare" Physical Exam
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Medicare covers a one-time preventive physical exam within the first 12 months that you have Part B. The exam will include a thorough review of your health, education and counseling about the preventive services you need, like certain screenings and shots, and referrals for other care. The "Welcome to Medicare" physical exam is a great way to get up-to-date on important screenings and shots and to talk with your doctor about your family history and how to stay healthy.
What should I expect during my exam?
During the exam, your doctor will record your medical history and check your blood pressure, vision, and weight and height to measure your body mass index. Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to both adult men and women. Your doctor will check to make sure that you are up-to-date with preventive screenings and services, such as cancer screening and shots. Depending on your general health and medical history, further tests may be ordered if necessary. For example, a person at risk for an abdominal aortic aneurysm may get a referral for a one-time screening ultrasound at their "Welcome to Medicare" physical exam.
Your doctor will also give you advice to help you prevent disease, improve your health or stay well. You will also get a written plan (such as a checklist) when you leave letting you know which screenings and other preventive services you should get.
Starting in 2009, your doctor will also talk with you about end-of-life planning, including advance directives. Advance directives are legal documents that allow you to put in writing what kind of health care you would want if you were too ill to speak for yourself. Talking to your family, friends, and health care providers about your wishes is important, but these legal documents ensure your wishes are followed.
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Remember!
Once you enroll in Part B, it's important to schedule your "Welcome to Medicare" physical exam right away. Medicare will only cover this physical exam if it occurs within the first 12 months that you have Part B. If your doctor thinks this 12-month period has passed, he or she should give you a notice that says Medicare probably won't pay for this service. If you still want to get the service, you will be asked to sign an agreement that you will pay for the service yourself if Medicare doesn't pay for it. This is called an Advance Beneficiary Notice.
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How much does the exam cost?
You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and no Part B deductible.
What should I bring with me to the exam?
You should bring the following things with you when you go to your "Welcome to Medicare" physical exam:
- medical records, including immunization records (if you are seeing a new doctor for the first time)
- family health history - try to learn as much as you can about your family's health history before your appointment. Any information you can give your doctor can help determine if you are at risk for certain diseases.
- a list of prescription drugs that you currently take, how often you take them, and why.
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