Now that we are well-into the new year, your insurance plan for this year likely has taken effect. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, your coverage should have started on January 1. So, now that you have a fresh plan, you will likely want to use it.
One of your most-critical needs as a senior is likely to get an annual checkup. Will your Advantage coverage pay for this service?
Checkup Coverage for Advantage Plans
Medicare Advantage coverage contains Parts A & B coverage, like Original Medicare. Part B coverage applies to a doctor’s services and outpatient care. So, you can receive a checkup under this coverage.
Your plan will cover a couple of different types of routine medical care. When you first enroll in the plan, you’ll visit the doctor for an initial appointment to establish care. Think of this as your welcome visit. The doctor will collect information to establish where your health stands at your first appointment. That will let them know how to proceed with care.
Your plan will then pay for an annual wellness visit. In other words, you can go for a checkup once per year. During this visit, the doctor will perform routine tests to see if changes have occurred. If they have, the doctor might recommend extra treatment or refer you to a care specialist.
Keep in mind, Advantage plans come in different forms. Your overall cost responsibility for a visit to the doctor might vary. Furthermore, you will need to see a doctor within your plan’s network.
What the Doctor Will Look For
During your visit, the doctor might perform a variety of tests. These might include:
- A blood pressure test and heart-rate test
- Blood collections to monitor things like your blood sugar, cholesterol and organ function
- Listening to your heart and lungs with a stethoscope
- Screenings for depression or anxiety
- Urine specimen collection
- Certain necessary vaccinations
Each of these services will help the doctor get a better view of your overall health. It can also help them see if there are indicators of deterioration or worrisome signs.
How They Will Help You
Annual checkups have a variety of benefits. That’s why you shouldn’t put off receiving one every year.
Perhaps most importantly, these visits might help your doctor spot problems before they have a chance to harm you. That can help you keep control of your health and even stabilize your ongoing wellness. In the end, that could lead to a lot less hassle and medical costs down the road.
Don’t hesitate to make an appointment with your provider today by calling 877-209-4949.
Also Read: Will Medicare Cover My Long-Term Care Costs?