If you have patients who are new to Medicare, encourage them to schedule their “Welcome to Medicare” physical exam. This is a FREE comprehensive screening that will ensure

• A record and evaluation of their medical and family history, current health conditions, and prescriptions.
• Baseline measures of blood pressure, vision, weight, and height.
• Review of preventive screenings and services, like cancer screenings and immunizations.
• Ordering of additional tests, if needed, depending on their general health and medical history.

After the visit, the doctor will give them a plan or checklist outlining free screenings and preventive services that they need. By collaborating with the physician/practice that performs the comprehensive review of the patient’s health status, the medical team at the dialysis clinic can be assured that the patient has an established resource for healthcare issues that are not specifically related to ESRD. This is a great opportunity to coordinate care for essential services like immunizations, diabetes management and cardiac related issues, just to name a few.

For more information, see: https://www.medicare.gov/people-like-me/new-to-medicare/welcome-to-medicare-visit.html