• Medicare's preventive services help seniors stay active and healthy.seniors walking image by astoria from Fotolia.com
  
  When you reach age 65 you can enroll in Medicare. The disabled can enroll at any age. When you first join Medicare, it is a good idea to schedule an appointment with a health care provider to receive the one-time-only "initial preventive physical examination" (IPPE), also known as, the "welcome to Medicare physical exam." Medicare beneficiaries have one year from the date of enrollment to complete this exam, which includes medical history, physical examination, counseling and outpatient screening tests.
  
  

Medical History

• At this visit a health care provider will ask questions about past and current medical history, including procedures, surgeries and use of medications and supplements. Questions will be asked about the family medical history to determine any risk factors. Other questions will cover personal habits such as sleep and the use of tobacco, alcohol or illicit drugs, physical activities and diet. Patients will fill out a questionnaire that evaluates any risk factors for depression or other mood disorders. Lastly, questions will be asked about hearing, daily activities, any recent falls and home safety.
  
  

Physical Examination

• A clinical professional will measure your height and weight to calculate body mass index (BMI), which helps determine whether you are the right weight. Blood pressure is also measured. The health care provider performs a brief visual exam and also a complete physical examination to assess any health problems. There is also a discussion of end-of-life planning to be sure everyone is on the same page in case you can no longer make health care decisions.
  
  

Counseling

• The health care provider reviews your overall medical history and results from your examination, and makes referrals to outpatient programs if they are needed. Outpatient referrals can be for dietary counseling services, or classes on prevention of chronic diseases or how to stop smoking.
  
  

Outpatient Preventive Services

• As part of the IPPE, Medicare will pay for a one-time routine electrocardiogram and for a one-time ultrasound screening of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) for patients who are at risk. Medicare provides coverage for several outpatient preventive services to screen for cancer, heart disease, diabetes, glaucoma and osteoporosis. These types of services have specific recommended timetables for early detection screening. The ranges go from every year up through every five years or when medically necessary. Medicare sends every new person a "welcome booklet" that provides all the information about the initial physical examination and the schedule for preventive services.