Heart Health and Medicare: Key Information for American Heart Month

February marks American Heart Month, a national reminder to prioritize cardiovascular wellness and take small steps that make a big impact. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death across the globe, with the World Health Organization estimating nearly 17.9 million lives lost annually. In the United States, the CDC notes that heart disease contributes to one out of every three deaths.

The encouraging news is that many heart-related complications can be prevented. By maintaining healthy routines and using Medicare’s preventive benefits, you can take an active role in supporting your heart and long-term health.

Healthy Living Begins with Prevention

Daily routines play a powerful role in strengthening your heart. Regular movement, nourishing foods, stress management, and quality sleep all support cardiovascular wellness. When paired with Medicare’s preventive tools, these habits help you monitor risks and stay informed.

1. Screenings and Diagnostic Tests

Identifying risk factors early is one of the most effective ways to prevent heart disease. Medicare Part B offers coverage for lipid panels, including cholesterol and triglyceride testing, once every five years. It also provides blood pressure and diabetes screenings, which are essential for assessing cardiovascular risk. For those with existing heart conditions or elevated risk, your provider may suggest — and Medicare may cover — more frequent monitoring.

Understanding your health metrics can lead to earlier treatment and better outcomes in the long run.

2. Support for Lifestyle and Behavioral Changes

Medicare includes one yearly cardiovascular behavioral therapy visit. During this session, your provider can discuss your eating habits, physical activity, and medications, offering tailored recommendations to reduce risk. It’s a practical way to stay informed and supported as you make heart-healthy adjustments.

3. Assistance for Quitting Smoking

Smoking remains one of the top preventable causes of heart disease. Both Medicare Advantage plans and Original Medicare cover various tools, including counseling, supported programs, and certain prescription medications designed to help you quit. Within just a year of stopping smoking, your risk of heart attack drops considerably, making it one of the most meaningful steps you can take for your heart.

4. Cardiac Rehabilitation Services

If you’ve had a heart attack, heart surgery, angioplasty, or valve repair, Medicare provides coverage for both standard and intensive cardiac rehab programs. These programs involve monitored exercise sessions, lifestyle counseling, and ongoing medical supervision. The goal is to regain strength, improve circulation, and lower the likelihood of future heart issues.

5. Coverage for Hospital Care and Heart Procedures

When hospitalization is needed due to a cardiac event, Medicare Part A helps cover the related inpatient care. This includes semiprivate rooms, meals, and nursing services associated with a qualifying hospital stay. This coverage offers essential support during a critical recovery period.

6. Annual Wellness Visits and Continuous Prevention

Your Medicare Part B annual wellness visit provides another crucial chance to keep tabs on your heart health. Providers can review blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other important indicators during this visit. They may also recommend screenings or preventive services tailored specifically to your risk level.

Most beneficiaries receive this visit at no extra cost, making it an easy and effective way to stay proactive about heart health.

Why Prevention Makes a Difference

Preventive services and healthy daily habits work together to dramatically lower the chances of developing heart disease. Medicare’s coverage helps uncover potential problems early, while giving you the resources to make informed lifestyle decisions. With these tools, staying on top of your heart health becomes more accessible and affordable.

Final Thoughts

Heart disease may be common, but it’s far from unavoidable. By pairing smart lifestyle choices with Medicare-covered preventive care, you can take meaningful steps toward better cardiovascular health. This American Heart Month, consider scheduling your annual wellness visit, reviewing your preventive benefits, and committing to one new heart-healthy change that supports your well-being throughout the year.