There is a greater cost involved in treating diabetes than preventing it. The U.S. Government realizes this so they have included prevention programs in their Medicare plan.
While this list isn’t complete it does take a look at prevention programs related very specifically to diabetes and related illnesses for those who participate in Medicare.
Cardiovascular Screenings
Helps detect conditions that may lead to a heart attack or stroke. This service is covered every 5 years to test your cholesterol, lipid, and triglyceride levels. No cost for the test, but you generally have to pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor’s visit.
Diabetes Screenings
Checks for diabetes. These screenings are covered if you have any of the following risk factors: high blood pressure (hypertension), history of abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels (dyslipidemia), obesity, or a history of high blood sugar (glucose). Tests are also covered if you answer yes to two or more of the following questions:
- Are you age 65 or older?
- Are you overweight?
- Do you have a family history of diabetes (parents, siblings)?
- Do you have a history of gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy), or did you deliver a baby weighing more than 9 pounds?
Based on the results of these tests, you may be eligible for up to two diabetes screenings every year. No cost for the test, but you generally have to pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor’s visit.
Diabetes Self-Management Training
For people with diabetes. Your doctor or other health care provider must provide a written order. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible applies.
EKG Screening
Medicare covers a one-time screening EKG if you get a referral for it as a result of your one-time “Welcome to Medicare” physical exam. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible applies. An EKG is also covered as a diagnostic test.
Flu Shots
Helps prevent influenza or flu virus. Covered once a flu season in the fall or winter. You need a flu shot for the current virus each year. No cost to you for the flu shot if the doctor accepts assignment for giving the shot.
Glaucoma Tests
Helps find the eye disease glaucoma. Covered once every 12 months for people at high risk for glaucoma. You are considered high risk for glaucoma if you have diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, are African-American and age 50 or older, or are Hispanic and age 65 or older. An eye doctor who is legally authorized by the state must do the tests. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible applies.
Medical Nutrition Therapy Services
Medicare may cover medical nutrition therapy and certain related services if you have diabetes or kidney disease, or you have had a kidney transplant in the last 36 months, and your doctor refers you for the service. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible applies.
Welcome to Medicare Physical Exam (one-time physical exam)
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. 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.
More information about these and other services can be found at the Medicare website
