Heart Health and Medicare: Key Tips to Know This American Heart Month

February marks American Heart Month, a nationwide reminder to pay closer attention to your cardiovascular well‑being. While it’s easy to associate the month with red attire and awareness campaigns, it’s also an opportunity to take real, proactive steps toward protecting your heart. Heart disease remains the top cause of death across the globe, claiming an estimated 17.9 million lives each year, according to the World Health Organization. Here in the United States, the CDC notes that roughly one in three deaths is linked to heart-related conditions.

The encouraging news? Many of these outcomes can be prevented. By embracing healthy daily habits and taking advantage of Medicare’s preventive benefits, you can better understand your heart health and reduce your risk of serious complications.

Building Heart-Healthy Habits Through Prevention

Small, consistent lifestyle decisions make a big impact over time. Regular physical activity, balanced meals, proper sleep, and stress management all contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system. When these habits are paired with Medicare’s no-cost preventive services, you gain an added layer of protection and insight into your overall health.

1. Screenings and Tests That Help You Stay Informed

Identifying potential issues early can significantly reduce your risk of developing heart disease. Medicare Part B provides coverage for cholesterol checks, lipid panels, and triglyceride screenings every five years. It also covers routine blood pressure and diabetes evaluations, both of which are essential for understanding your heart health. People with existing heart concerns—or those at higher risk—may qualify for more frequent testing under their provider’s guidance.

Having accurate, up‑to‑date numbers helps doctors intervene earlier and tailor treatment plans for better long-term outcomes.

2. Personalized Behavioral and Lifestyle Support

Medicare also includes one cardiovascular behavioral therapy session each year. During this visit, your physician can review your eating habits, exercise routine, and medications. They may suggest changes to help reduce risk factors or strengthen your heart health plan. This focused support gives you the opportunity to ask questions, stay accountable, and make meaningful changes with professional insight.

3. Tobacco Cessation Programs to Help You Quit Smoking

Smoking remains one of the strongest predictors of heart disease—but it’s also one of the most preventable. With both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, you have access to counseling, smoking cessation programs, and certain approved medications designed to help you quit. The impact is immediate: within a year of stopping, your likelihood of a heart attack drops significantly. For many, this is one of the most powerful decisions they can make for their long‑term heart health.

4. Cardiac Rehabilitation After Heart-Related Events

If you’ve recently experienced a heart attack or undergone a cardiac procedure—such as bypass surgery, valve replacement, or angioplasty—Medicare covers a range of cardiac rehabilitation programs. These include both general and intensive options, blending guided exercise, education, and monitoring. The goal is to help patients regain strength, boost circulation, and lower the risk of future cardiac complications. With professional supervision, patients can rebuild confidence and understand safe, effective ways to move forward.

5. Medicare Coverage for Hospital Stays and Procedures

Medicare Part A plays an important role in covering inpatient care for heart-related emergencies and treatments. This typically includes semiprivate rooms, meals, and nursing care after a qualifying stay. Knowing you have coverage during a serious health event provides essential peace of mind while you focus on recovery and healing.

6. Annual Wellness Visits and Ongoing Prevention

Medicare Part B also provides coverage for an annual wellness visit—an ideal time to review key indicators such as cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and other important health metrics. Your provider can recommend preventive steps or additional screenings tailored to your specific risk factors. Many people can schedule this visit at no extra cost, making it one of the easiest ways to stay proactive about your heart health.

Why Prevention Matters

Preventive care is one of the most effective ways to reduce your chances of developing heart disease. By identifying concerns early, you can address them before they become more serious. Medicare’s preventive services are designed to be accessible and affordable, helping you take control of your health with confidence. With consistent care and lifestyle awareness, you can build a strong foundation for long-term cardiovascular wellness.

Final Thoughts

While heart disease affects millions of people, it isn’t something you’re powerless against. With a mix of everyday healthy habits and Medicare-covered preventive services, you can significantly improve your heart health and reduce risks. This American Heart Month, consider scheduling your annual wellness visit, reviewing the preventive benefits available to you, and choosing one small habit that strengthens your heart—not just in February but throughout the entire year.