What is the definition of 'preventive services' in the context of Medicare?

The definition of 'preventive services' in the context of Medicare refers to services aimed at preventing diseases or detecting them early. This is a critical aspect of healthcare that focuses on maintaining health and well-being before any serious conditions arise. Preventive services can include vaccinations, screenings, and annual wellness visits, which can help catch potential health issues early on, leading to better management and outcomes.

When beneficiaries engage in these services, they are not only working towards maintaining their health but also potentially reducing the need for more extensive and costly treatments later. Medicare offers many preventive services at no cost to enrollees, which further emphasizes the program's commitment to encouraging proactive healthcare measures.