February is American Heart Month, so knowing what kind of heart health coverage Medicare offers is essential to keep you and your heart healthy.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America for both men and women, so heart health should be taken very seriously. There are multiple factors around heart health, depending on what type of care you have. From preventative measures to heart procedures, Medicare does have it all.
Preventative Measures
Having a primary doctor that you can regularly see is the best and most effective way to take preventative action against heart conditions. When seeing a primary doctor, they’ll be able to follow your health and determine any possible conditions they may think you’re susceptible to concerning your heart’s health.
Incorporate healthy habits into your life. Eating better is one of the best things you can do. Including whole foods, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and healthy oils like olive oil can profoundly impact your heart health.
Start an exercise program. Even if you walk 30 minutes a day or do yoga, getting your body moving has fantastic benefits. Experts say adults should get at least 2 ½ hours of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity each week. Children should have 60 minutes each day of play or activity.
Manage your weight. Keeping a healthy weight comes with so many benefits. Your heart will thank you, and you will start to feel better as you lose weight. If you aren’t sure where to start in your weight loss journey, talk with your doctor for tips. A nutritionist is also a good person to talk to.
Manage your blood pressure. If you suffer from high blood pressure, discuss ways to lower it with your doctor. It could be a combination of medication and healthier habits that do the trick.
If you smoke, please quit. Smoking, whether cigarettes or vapes, is the leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States.
Get enough sleep. I know this can be a challenge, especially with how busy our lives have become. Yet, we often forget how important sleep is for our bodies and minds. Experts say adults need between seven to nine hours per night. Children ages five and younger should have 10 to 16 hours per night, including naps. Children between the ages of six and 12 need between nine and 12 hours, and those between 13 and 18 need eight to 10 hours. Good sleep helps to heal, improves brain function, and can reduce the risk of chronic disease.
What Medicare Covers in the Next Steps
Even when preventive care is implemented over the years, your heart can still have problems. So, what do you do when you’ve been diagnosed with something that negatively impacts your heart health? While Medicare will help you cover most doctor’s visits, they may not provide you coverage with prescriptions you may have to take to keep you and your heart healthy. So enrolling in another Medicare coverage plan, like Plan D, can help cover those prescription costs.
Another option you can add to your base Medicare plan is opting for a Heart Attack or Stroke Insurance Plan if you and your doctor think you’re susceptible to one in the future. These can often be pricey, but in the case of an emergency, it’s almost certainly worth it. If you’re diagnosed or have a heart procedure, Medicare plans also offer Cardiac Rehabilitation if you meet specific criteria or have a referral from your doctor.
Contact Your Local Medicare Insurance Agent
I work closely with individuals with various health conditions, including those with heart issues. Let’s discuss your options as to what plan best benefits you and what care you can expect to receive regarding heart health. Your heart will thank you!