The Welcome to Medicare preventive visit is a one-time appointment when you are new to Medicare. The aim of the visit is to promote general health and help prevent diseases.
Covered Services
During the course of your Welcome to Medicare preventive visit, your provider should:
- Certain screenings, flu and pneumococcal shots, and referrals for other care, if needed.
- Height, weight, and blood pressure measurements.
- A calculation of your body mass index.
- A simple vision test.
- A review of your potential risk for depression and your level of safety.
- An offer to talk with you about creating advance directives.
- A written plan letting you know which screenings, shots, and other preventive services you need. Get details about coverage for screenings, shots, and other preventive services.
Your costs in Original Medicare
You pay nothing for the Welcome to Medicare visit if your doctor accepts Medicare assignment. Your annual deductible and Part B coinsurance is waived.
How do I schedule a Welcome to Medicare Visit?
Once your Part B is effective, simply contact your doctor and request an appointment. Be sure to let the scheduler know it’s a Welcome visit so your doctor has enough time to do the screenings and discuss them with you. Bring the following to your appointment:
- Medical records, including immunization records.
- Family health history.
- A list of any prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements that you currently take, how often you take them, and why.