Living a long, healthy life in the islands starts with prevention—and thanks to Medicare, many essential wellness services are available at no cost. Whether you’re a kupuna (elder), a caregiver, or simply planning ahead, it’s important to understand what’s included and how to access it.
Here’s a breakdown of the free preventive services Medicare covers—and how Hawaii residents can take advantage of them to stay well, both physically and mentally.
Your Annual Wellness Visit is your chance to check in with your doctor and get a full picture of your health. Medicare covers this once per year—for free.
Included in your Annual Wellness Visit:
Height & weight check
Blood pressure screening
Medication review
Family medical history discussion
Healthy brain screening
This visit is key to early detection and can help your doctor customize a care plan to keep you thriving.
Preventing illness is easier (and cheaper) than treating it. That’s why Medicare covers a variety of recommended vaccinations:
Flu shot
Pneumonia shot
Tetanus shot
COVID-19 vaccination
Talk to your doctor about which vaccinations are recommended for your age, health conditions, or travel plans.
If you’re at risk of diabetes or managing prediabetes, Medicare covers diabetes screening up to two times per year.
Diabetes checks include:
Blood pressure
Blood sugar levels
Cholesterol
Weight monitoring
Early detection can prevent complications and help you live a healthier, more active lifestyle.
Medicare covers several critical cancer screenings that can detect issues before symptoms appear:
Lung cancer
Breast cancer
Cervical cancer
Prostate cancer
Colorectal cancer
These screenings are especially important for individuals with family history or other risk factors. Don’t wait—early detection can save your life.
If you’re unsure which preventive services you’re eligible for or how to schedule them, Hawaii SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) is here to help.
📞 808-586-7299
☎️ Toll-Free: 1-888-875-9229
Their counselors offer free, local, and unbiased guidance to Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers across the islands.
Taking charge of your health starts with knowing your benefits. With free wellness services covered by Medicare, Hawaii’s seniors and caregivers have the tools they need to live healthier, longer lives—without worrying about the cost.
So don’t wait—ask your doctor today about your next wellness visit, screenings, and vaccines. Staying well is free, and your health is worth it.
