Medicare End-of-Year To-Do List

Medicare covers many health screenings and medical tests that are important for preventive care. Are you taking advantage of all that your plan provides by getting the following services? 

Annual Checkup

Visit your primary care doctor at least once a year for a wellness exam. These checkups give you and your doctor a chance to consider your key health stats—for example, your weight and blood pressure. Share a list of your prescriptions and medications for the doctor to review. Let them know if you’ve experienced a fall or urinary incontinence. 

Speaking up about these things and any other health concerns is the best way to advocate for yourself and to get the care you need and deserve. 

Vaccines 

Ask your doctor if you’re due for any boosters or vaccines. Have you had your flu shot? What about a pneumonia vaccine? 

Preventative Screenings

Colorectal cancer screenings, mammograms, cholesterol level checks, and blood pressure evaluations are smart ways to stay ahead of big health problems. Also, ask your doctor if it’s time for a baseline DEXA scan, which measures your bone density. This is especially important if you’ve had a recent fracture. 

Diabetes Screenings

If you are diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes, work closely with your doctor to track your hemoglobin A1c, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Ask your doctor about urine and blood tests to screen for kidney damage. Also, a dilated eye exam is recommended once a year. 

This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Kumar Dharmarajan.

 

Published on 12/6/22

Photo credit: Getty