As the seasons change and spring brings a fresh start, it’s the perfect time to focus on your health. Preventive care is one of the most valuable benefits of Medicare, helping you stay ahead of potential health issues before they become serious. Regular checkups, screenings, and vaccines can keep you feeling your best while avoiding unexpected medical expenses.
Medicare covers a wide range of preventive services at little to no cost for beneficiaries, making it easier than ever to prioritize your well-being. At Gary Smith Medicare Agency, we’re here to help Gulfport and surrounding Mississippi residents understand how to take full advantage of these benefits.
Whether you’re due for a wellness visit, need a routine screening, or want to stay protected with vaccinations, Medicare has you covered.
Does Preventive Care Matter?
Preventive care is about catching health concerns early before they turn into major medical issues. Many serious conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, can be detected and treated more effectively when identified early. Regular screenings and checkups not only improve health outcomes but also reduce long-term healthcare costs by preventing complications that could require expensive treatments or hospitalizations.
Medicare’s preventive services help beneficiaries maintain their health by providing coverage for essential exams, tests, and vaccines. Many of these services are covered at 100%, meaning no additional out-of-pocket costs for eligible patients.
By using these benefits, Medicare recipients can enjoy better health, greater peace of mind, and a proactive approach to their medical care.
Medicare-Covered Preventive Services in 2025
Medicare offers an extensive list of preventive screenings and wellness services designed to help detect health issues early.
Some of the most important preventive services covered by Medicare include:
Annual Wellness Visit – Each year, Medicare beneficiaries are entitled to an Annual Wellness Visit, which serves as a general health assessment rather than a full physical exam. During this visit, your doctor will review your medical history, check key health metrics like blood pressure and weight, discuss any concerns, and help develop a personalized prevention plan.
Cardiovascular Disease Screenings – Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in the U.S., but early detection can make a significant difference. Medicare covers screenings for cholesterol, lipid, and triglyceride levels to help assess heart health and risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Diabetes Screenings and Management – Diabetes is a common condition among seniors, and Medicare helps by covering screenings for those at risk. If diagnosed, Medicare also provides coverage for diabetes self-management training, nutrition therapy, and necessary supplies like blood glucose monitors and test strips.
Bone Density Testing – Osteoporosis is a serious concern for older adults, particularly women. Medicare covers bone mass measurements once every two years for those at risk, helping prevent fractures and complications from brittle bones.
Vaccinations and Immunizations – Medicare covers essential vaccines to protect beneficiaries from preventable diseases. These include:
- Flu shots (covered annually)
- Pneumococcal vaccines (to protect against pneumonia)
- Hepatitis B shots (for those at risk)
- Shingles vaccines (covered under Medicare Part D)
- COVID-19 vaccinations (if needed)
Keeping up with vaccinations can help prevent serious illnesses and reduce hospitalizations, making them a key part of any preventive care plan.
Cancer Screenings – Detecting cancer early significantly improves treatment success. Medicare covers a variety of cancer screenings, including:
- Mammograms (annually for women 40 and older)
- Colorectal cancer screenings (such as colonoscopies, fecal occult blood tests, and stool DNA tests)
- Prostate cancer screenings (PSA tests for men 50 and older)
- Lung cancer screenings (for high-risk individuals)
How to Maximize Your Medicare Preventive Care Benefits
Understanding what’s covered under Medicare is only the first step—taking full advantage of these benefits requires action. Here’s how to ensure you’re getting the most out of your preventive care coverage:
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Schedule Your Annual Wellness Visit
One of the best ways to stay on top of your health is by making your Annual Wellness Visit a priority. This appointment allows you to discuss any concerns with your doctor, review necessary screenings, and plan your healthcare for the year.
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Keep Track of Your Screenings and Tests
Some screenings, like mammograms and bone density tests, are only covered once every two years, while others may be needed annually. Make sure to stay informed about when you’re eligible for each service so you don’t miss out.
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Check Your Medicare Plan for Additional Benefits
While Original Medicare covers many preventive services, Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may offer additional benefits such as fitness programs, nutrition counseling, and vision and dental coverage. If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, review your coverage to see what extras are available.
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Ask About Medicare Part D for Vaccines
While Medicare covers most vaccines under Part B, some, like the shingles vaccine, are covered under Medicare Part D (prescription drug plans). If you’re due for a vaccine, check with your pharmacy or plan provider to confirm your coverage.
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Stay Informed About Changes to Medicare
Medicare updates its benefits and coverage rules each year. Staying informed about new or expanded preventive services ensures that you’re making the most of your coverage. At Gary Smith Medicare Agency, we help Gulfport residents keep up with Medicare updates so they never miss an important healthcare benefit.
The Cost of Preventive Care Under Medicare
One of the best things about Medicare’s preventive services is that most are available at no extra cost to beneficiaries. Many screenings, vaccines, and annual wellness visits are covered at 100%, as long as you visit a Medicare-approved provider. However, some services may require coinsurance or a deductible if follow-up care is needed.
If you’re unsure about what’s covered or whether you’ll have out-of-pocket costs, our team at Gary Smith Medicare Agency can help you review your Medicare benefits and ensure you’re fully utilizing your preventive care options.
Take Charge of Your Health This Spring
Spring is a season of renewal, making it the perfect time to take control of your health with Medicare’s preventive care benefits. Regular screenings, wellness visits, and vaccinations help detect potential health issues early, giving you the best chance at staying healthy and active in 2025.
At Gary Smith Medicare Agency, we’re committed to helping Gulfport residents understand and maximize their Medicare benefits. Whether you have questions about covered services, need help scheduling screenings, or are considering a Medicare Advantage plan, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
📞 Call us today at (228) 762-3334
💻 Visit us online at garysmithmedicareagency.net
📍 Or stop by our office to speak with a local Medicare expert!
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