STEP ONE Read about Medicare Preventative Services If your Medicare Part B coverage beings on or after January 1, 2005 Medicare will cover a one-time preventive physical exam within the first six months that you have Part B. The exam will include a thorough review of your health, education and counseling about the preventative services you need, like certain screenings and shots, and referrals for other care. The "Welcome to Medicare" physical exam is a great way to get up-to-date on important screening and shots and to talk with your doctor about your family history and how to stay healthy.

What should I expect during my exam?
During the exam, your doctor will record your medical history and check your blood pressure, weight and height. Your doctor may also give you a vision test and an Electrocardiogram (EKG). Your doctor will check to make sure that you are up-to-date with your shots. Depending on your general health and medical history, further test may be ordered if necessary. Your doctor will also give you advice to help you prevent disease, improve your health or stay well. You will also get a written plan (such as a checklist) when you leave letting you know which screenings and other preventive services you should get.

The preventive services may include:

• Cardiovascular Screening
• Cancer Tests
• Breast Cancer Screening (Mammograms)
• Cervical and Vaginal Cancer Screening (Pap Test and Pelvic Exam)
• Colon Cancer Screening (Colorectal)
• Prostate Cancer Screening (PSA)
• Shots
  • Flu
  • Pneumococcal
  • Hepatitis B
• Bone Mass Measurements
• Diabetes Screening
• Glaucoma Tests

Remember!
Once you enroll in Part B, it's important to schedule your "Welcome to Medicare" physical exam right away. Medicare will only cover this physical exam if it occurs within the first six months that you have Part B. If your doctor thinks this six month period has passed, he or she should give you a notice that says Medicare probably won't pay for this service. If you still want to get the service, you will be asked to sign an agreement that you will pay for the service yourself if Medicare doesn't pay for it. This is called an Advance Beneficiary Notice.

How much does the exam cost?
You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after you meet the yearly Part B deductible. Since this may be your first Medicare-covered service, you may meet your entire Part B deductible at this visit.

What should I bring with me to the exam?
You should bring the following things with you when you go to your "Welcome to Medicare" physical exam:

• Medical records, including immunization records.
• Family health history - try to learn as much as you can about your family's health history before your appointment. Any information you can give your doctor can help determine if you are at risk for certain diseases.
• A list of medications that you currently take, how often you take them and why.

Step Two