Important Medicare Coverage Information for Hypertension

Living with Hypertension

High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the force of blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. Often called the “silent killer,” it can cause serious health issues without showing symptoms. It increases your risk of conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and kidney failure.

Key Facts About Hypertension

Nearly half of Americans aged 20 and older have high blood pressure, and over three-quarters of those over 65 are affected.
Hypertension can lead to cardiovascular disease, heart failure, diabetes, kidney damage, and more.
Medicare provides coverage for screenings, counseling, rehabilitation programs, and medications related to high blood pressure.

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

Factors contributing to hypertension include genetics, age, poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, excessive alcohol use, chronic stress, and certain medical conditions. In some cases, medications or hormonal disorders can also play a role.

How Can You Manage High Blood Pressure?

Treating hypertension often involves lifestyle changes such as eating healthier, increasing physical activity, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medication and suggest regular blood pressure monitoring. Relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga may also help manage stress, which is linked to hypertension.

What Medicare Covers for High Blood Pressure:

Medicare offers several options to help manage and treat hypertension, including:

1. Preventative Screening
Cardiovascular disease Screenings:	Covered once every five years

Diabetes Screenings:	Up to two blood glucose tests per year.

Alcohol misuse screenings:	One per year if alcohol is a contributing factor.

Yearly "Wellness" visit:	Discuss hypertension and create personalized care.

2. Counseling Services
Alcohol misuse counseling:	Up to four visits annually.

Cardiovascular behavioral therapy:	One visit per year.

Nutrition therapy:	For those with diabetes, kidney disease, or recent kidney.

3. Medications
Medicare drug plans cover many medications for hypertension. Check your plan’s formulary or request a formulary exception if necessary.

Managing your blood pressure is essential for maintaining overall health. Medicare’s coverage of screenings, treatments, and medications ensures you have the resources needed to keep hypertension under control.

To Learn More Visit Our Wellness Program

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