26 Free Medicare Services You Should Know to Save Money
Healthcare can feel confusing, especially when you try to understand what is paid for and what is not. Medicare is an important program for millions, providing key services to help handle rising medical bills. Still, many people do not know about the free services offered, which could lead to missed chances to save money or avoid surprise medical costs.
On average, a 65-year-old American may need around $157,500 to pay for healthcare costs in retirement. Knowing what Medicare pays for is important to reduce this financial stress. Without this knowledge, you might pay for services included in your plan for free.
We want to help you make better choices about money and healthcare. Our experience in personal finance and retirement gives us a strong understanding of planning for big life costs, including healthcare.
In this guide, we will show you Medicare services that do not cost extra, so you can get the most from your benefits without spending too much.
Do you know all the free Medicare services you can use? Let’s look closer at how to get the best from your coverage.
Depression Screening
Mental health matters just as much as physical health, and Medicare shows this by providing a free yearly depression check. You can get this check during your wellness visit, making sure your mental health is part of your full care.
If you feel sad or have emotional problems, this service can find issues early. It is good to know that Medicare covers mental health in its free prevention services.
Bone Density Test
Medicare covers bone density tests once every two years, or more frequently if your doctor deems it medically necessary. This test helps monitor your bone health and can detect osteoporosis early.
If you’re at risk for osteoporosis, having access to this free test is a major benefit. Regular monitoring can prevent more serious bone issues and keep you active and healthy.
Obesity Counseling
Keeping a healthy weight is important for your overall health. Medicare provides free weight-loss counseling if your doctor says you need it. These sessions can help you make better choices and give you simple plans to control your weight.
If you have had trouble managing your weight, this free service offers the support you need to get healthier without extra medical expenses.
Annual Wellness Visit
Medicare covers an annual wellness visit at no charge. This visit is essential for staying on top of your health, as it helps create or update a personalized prevention plan tailored to your specific needs. Your doctor will assess your current health status and make recommendations that can help prevent future illnesses.
The annual wellness visit is a great opportunity to discuss any concerns you have and ensure you’re receiving the right care. It’s about taking proactive steps to keep your health on track, without worrying about the cost.
Flu, Pneumococcal, and COVID-19 Vaccines
Staying up-to-date on vaccines is one of the simplest ways to protect your health, and Medicare covers these vaccines at no cost. The flu shot, pneumococcal vaccine, and COVID-19 vaccine are all fully covered.
By getting these vaccines, you can reduce your risk of serious illness, especially during peak seasons. With Medicare handling the cost, there’s no reason not to prioritize your preventive care.
Inpatient Hospital Care
If you go into a hospital, Medicare Part A pays for care while you stay there, including meals, nursing, and medicines. This means if you need to be in the hospital, Medicare will pay for many of the costs.
Knowing these basic costs are paid helps reduce worries during a hospital stay. You can concentrate on getting better instead of worrying about money.
Screenings for Diabetes, Cancer, and Cardiovascular Diseases
Medicare offers free screenings to detect serious conditions early on, such as diabetes, various types of cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. For example, mammograms, colonoscopies, and cholesterol tests are available at no cost to those who qualify. Eligibility often depends on factors like age or medical history, but these screenings can be life-saving.
Knowing you have access to these tests without financial barriers encourages more people to get tested regularly. Early detection can lead to better outcomes and lower healthcare costs down the road.
Skilled Nursing Facility Care
Medicare also pays for care in skilled nursing facilities, but you must meet certain rules. To qualify, you have to stay in a hospital as an inpatient for at least three days and then move to a skilled nursing facility.
If you qualify, Medicare will cover services like physical therapy, medicine, and meals, making it easier to pay for recovery after a hospital stay. This help is important for patients to get stronger.
Home Health Services
Medicare Part A provides free home health services under certain conditions. If you need intermittent skilled nursing care or physical therapy at home, these services may be covered at no cost.
This can be a huge relief for those recovering at home. Access to skilled care without worrying about costs can make the difference in a smooth recovery.
Vaccinations
Medicare Part B pays for many vaccines, like those for shingles and hepatitis B. These vaccines are free for people who qualify. Getting these free shots helps keep you safe from diseases that can cause problems as you get older.
Cancer Screenings
Medicare provides free cancer screenings, including tests for prostate, cervical, and lung cancers. Eligibility for these screenings often depends on factors like age and risk level.
By offering these tests at no cost, Medicare makes it easier to detect cancers early, when treatment is most effective. Staying informed about your screening options can make a big difference.
Diabetes Prevention Program
For people at risk of diabetes, Medicare provides a free Diabetes Prevention Program. It offers advice and lifestyle coaching to help stop diabetes from starting.
This program can make a big difference for those at risk. Getting support to avoid a long-term illness is very helpful, and Medicare covers it for free.
Hospice Care
For individuals with terminal illnesses, Medicare covers hospice care, including pain relief, symptom management, and emotional support. Hospice services are designed to provide comfort and dignity in the final stages of life.
Both patients and their families benefit from the full range of care, which also includes counseling and respite care for caregivers. All of this is provided at no cost, making the difficult journey a little easier.
Blood Transfusions
If you need a blood transfusion while staying in a hospital or getting care in a skilled nursing facility, Medicare will pay for it. This important service is fully covered by Medicare Part A.
Knowing this service is free lets you focus on your health without stress about the cost.
Annual “Welcome to Medicare” Preventive Visit
When you join Medicare for the first time, you can get a free “Welcome to Medicare” checkup. This visit helps create a plan to keep you healthy and shows your current health status.
It’s a good chance to learn about your benefits and start your Medicare experience knowing more about your health.
SilverSneakers Program
Many Medicare Advantage plans offer free gym memberships and fitness programs through the SilverSneakers program. This is a great way to stay active and improve your overall health.
With free access to fitness facilities, you can focus on your wellness goals without worrying about the cost.
Over-the-Counter Benefits
Some Medicare Advantage plans also provide free over-the-counter (OTC) items, such as vitamins and first-aid supplies. This can save you money on everyday health products.
If your plan includes this benefit, it’s an easy way to get essential items at no extra cost.
Transportation Services
Certain Medicare Advantage plans offer free transportation to and from medical appointments. This can be incredibly helpful if you don’t have reliable access to transportation.
These free rides can make it easier to stay on top of your health, ensuring you never miss an important appointment.
Telehealth Visits
Telehealth is becoming a popular way to get healthcare, and Medicare pays for online check-ups and mental health visits at no extra cost. This means you can see your doctor without going anywhere.
If you like using virtual care, these services are fully covered, making it easy to stay in touch with your doctor from any place.
Glaucoma Tests
Medicare covers free annual glaucoma tests for people at high risk, such as those with diabetes or a family history of glaucoma. Early detection can help preserve vision.
Knowing this screening is available for free can encourage those at risk to get tested regularly.
If you like what you are reading, then click like and subscribe to my newsletter. We share tips to waste less time and money.
Cardiovascular Disease Screenings
If you’re concerned about heart disease, Medicare covers free blood tests to check for conditions that could lead to heart problems. These screenings are available annually.
By staying on top of your heart health, you can take action early and avoid more serious issues down the line.
Additional Free Services
Medicare Advantage plans often include extra free services that original Medicare does not cover, such as eye, ear, and dental checkups. These extra benefits can help cover parts of your healthcare that might be missing.
It’s a good idea to check your plan carefully to find out what extra services are included. These free extras can be very helpful.
Access During the COVID-19 Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Medicare expanded its telehealth services, allowing more people to access care remotely. These services continue to be available, giving you access to care without the need for in-person visits.
Telehealth is a convenient, safe option for managing your health during and beyond the pandemic.
Chronic Care Management
For people with long-term health problems, Medicare offers free telehealth services to help with regular care. This lets you have check-ins and tracking often without needing to visit the doctor many times.
Taking care of long-term health issues can take a lot of time, but free telehealth services make it simpler to keep your health in good shape.
Know Your Coverage
Understanding your specific Medicare plan is key to making the most of your free benefits. Take the time to review your plan so you’re aware of what’s included.
By knowing your coverage, you can avoid surprises and take full advantage of the free services available to you.
Ask Your Doctor
If you are not sure if a service is covered, ask your doctor. They can explain which tests, check-ups, or health services are free with your Medicare plan.
Asking questions early helps you get the care you need without surprise bills.
Stay Updated on Changes
Medicare benefits can change every year, so it’s important to keep track. Checking your plan each year helps you know exactly what is covered. Benefit changes might bring new free services, so it’s important to stay aware.
Use Medicare’s Online Tools
Medicare offers helpful online tools, like the Medicare Plan Finder, to check your coverage and benefits. These tools make it easy to stay informed.
Taking a few minutes to explore these resources can help you maximize your free benefits and ensure you’re getting the most out of your plan.
Lab Tests
Medicare pays for many lab tests, such as blood tests for diabetes and cholesterol, without charging you when a doctor asks for them. These tests help check your health and find problems early.
By watching important health signs, these free tests help you and your doctor take action early.
Diagnostic Tests
Medicare also provides coverage for diagnostic tests like EKGs, which are used to detect heart conditions. These tests are free when medically necessary.
If you need these tests, knowing they’re covered helps take the financial stress out of getting the care you need.
Tips for Maximizing Free Medicare Benefits
Getting the most from your Medicare benefits begins with knowing exactly what is offered. Spend time each year looking over your coverage carefully to make sure you are using your plan well. This means knowing which checkups and tests are fully paid for, so you can use them without any surprise costs.
It’s also key to talk with your doctor about what your Medicare plan covers when you visit. They can help point out free checkups or services you might not know about. Being active in learning about your benefits helps you get the care you need without extra money worries.
Maximizing Your Medicare Benefits
Using Medicare’s free services is a smart way to keep yourself healthy while saving money. By getting regular check-ups and tests, you can find health problems early and avoid costly treatments later.
It’s important to talk with your healthcare providers often and use Medicare’s tools to learn about the benefits you can get. These services help you stay well without extra costs.
Checking your Medicare plan every year helps you know about the free services you can use. By staying aware and making good decisions, you can take care of your health and money at the same time.
If you like what you just read, then subscribe to my newsletter.
- Retirement Savings: 25 Expenses Smart Seniors Know To Avoid
- More Grandparents Now Raising Grandchildren: 15 Legal and Social Battles You Need to Know
AI was used for light editing, formatting, and readability. But a human (me!) wrote and edited this.
