Is an Annual Physical Covered by Medicare?

Annual physicals are essential for monitoring overall health and detecting potential issues early on. While most health insurance plans cover these routine checkups, Medicare does not. However, Medicare does offer similar services such as an annual wellness visit and a Welcome to Medicare exam, both focusing on preventive care and maintaining good health.

The Welcome to Medicare visit is a free initial preventive physical exam that Medicare covers during the first 12 months after enrollment in Part B. This exam gathers information about your health status, risks for diseases, and provides recommendations to improve or maintain your health. On the other hand, the annual wellness visit is available for Medicare Part B enrollees after the first 12 months, focusing on preventive care and screening tests.

It’s important to note that Medicare does not cover the cost of annual physical exams due to its focus on medically necessary services rather than general checkups. Medicare aims to prevent diseases and maintain good health through preventive care services rather than diagnostic tests.

For Medicare enrollees who want an annual physical, they may need to cover the cost out of pocket or consider enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes this benefit. Understanding the differences between annual physicals, wellness visits, and Medicare coverage is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.