Most health conditions are more manageable with early detection and prompt intervention. As such, Medicare covers a broad range of screenings to encourage beneficiaries to schedule preventive doctor’s appointments. Some tests are even provided free of charge. Here are a few services your plan helps you afford.

What Preventive Exams Does Medicare Cover?

1. Prostate Cancer Screenings

Prostate cancer affects primarily senior men. Symptoms include trouble urinating, erectile dysfunction, and blood in semen.

Men over the age of 50 are entitled to annual prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests. If the condition is diagnosed early, doctors often recommend active surveillance. If it progresses, treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy. 

2. Diabetes Screening 

Adult-onset diabetes is characterized by reduced insulin production, which affects the way the body metabolizes glucose. Risk factors include having a body mass index (BMI) of 25 to 30, a family history of diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle. 

If your physician diagnosed you with pre-diabetes in a past doctor’s appointment, you may be eligible for two free screenings each year. If you have hypertension, high cholesterol levels, or a BMI of over 30, you can receive annual screenings for free.

3. Pap Smears

Medicare covers Pap smears for women. If you have no family history of cervical cancer and don’t have human papillomavirus (HPV) or immunity disorders, your risk for cervical cancer is considered to be low. Medicare covers Pap smears for you every two years.

If you’re high-risk, Medicare covers annual screenings. Someone who’s had an abnormal Pap smear in the past 36 months is also entitled to coverage for annual tests.

For transportation to your next preventive doctor’s appointment, turn to Agape Transportation. Based in the Bronx, NY, this non-emergency medical transportation company serves clients across New York City and Westchester County. Backed by nearly 35 years of experience, they boast state-of-the-art vehicles with easy access for customers with reduced mobility. Learn more about their work on their website, or call (718) 585-2222 to schedule a ride.