The Medicare & Medicaid Center

Medicare is a world all of its own in the world of health insurance because of a totally different set of rules and regulations.  As insurance is generally ruled on the state level Medicare is a bit different in that it has many federal regulations.  One of the things that makes Medicare different from other types of health insurance is the “Welcome to Medicare Physical Exam” that is given when you qualify for coverage.

This is a one-time review of your health, and education and counseling about preventive services, including certain screenings, shots, and referrals for other care if needed.  Many times certain different kinds of screenings are only available for referral if they are detected in the “Welcome to Medicare Physical Exam”.  This is why it is important that you are aware of what is going on when it is being performed.

Medicare will cover this exam if you get it within the first 12 months you have Part B. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount. When you make your appointment, let your doctor’s office know that you would like to schedule your “Welcome to Medicare” physical exam.  In addition, let them know if there are any family medical history issues that you want to be addressed in the procedure.