Medicare offers many preventive services with no cost sharing when the coverage rules are met, but “free” has conditions.
Two visits people confuse
The one-time Welcome to Medicare preventive visit is available during the first 12 months you have Part B. After you have had Part B longer than 12 months, Medicare covers a yearly wellness visit to create or update a prevention plan. Neither is a routine head-to-toe physical.
Examples of preventive coverage
Depending on age, sex, risk and frequency rules, Medicare covers many screenings and services, including certain cancer screenings, cardiovascular and diabetes screenings, depression screening, bone-mass measurements, obesity counseling, tobacco-use counseling and vaccines.
Why a $0 visit can produce a bill
You may owe money when the provider does not accept assignment, the service is performed more often than Medicare allows, you do not meet eligibility rules, or the appointment turns into evaluation or treatment of a new problem. Ask which portion is preventive and whether additional work could be billed separately.
Other free help
SHIP provides free, personalized Medicare counseling and is not connected to an insurance company. People with limited income and resources should also check Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help rather than assuming they do not qualify. In the RetireNerd Medicare Series
- Medicare Explained: The Complete, Easy-to-Follow Guide
- How Much Does Medicare Cost in 2026? A Realistic Monthly Budget
- Medicare for Married Couples: What Spouses Need to Handle Separately
- Does Medicare Cover Dental, Vision and Hearing?
- What Does Medicare Cover for Free? Preventive Services Explained
- What Medicare Does Not Cover: 10 Gaps to Plan For
- Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage: How to Choose
- When to Sign Up for Medicare: Deadlines, Work Coverage and Penalties
- Medicare Part D: How to Compare Drug Plans Every Year
Official resources
- Medicare.gov
- Medicare Plan Compare
- Free, unbiased SHIP counseling
- Sign up for Medicare through Social Security
Educational information only. Medicare rules, costs and plan details can change. Confirm decisions with Medicare, Social Security, your current benefits administrator and a licensed professional when appropriate.