February marks American Heart Month, a nationwide reminder to focus on cardiovascular wellness and take steps that support a healthier future. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death around the world, claiming millions of lives each year. In the United States, the CDC notes that roughly one out of every three deaths is linked to heart disease.

While the numbers are serious, the encouraging news is that many heart-related issues can be prevented. When you combine healthy daily habits with the preventive services available through Medicare, you can make meaningful progress in protecting your heart.

Healthy Habits Begin with Awareness

Small, consistent actions can make a long-term difference for your heart. Regular physical activity, nutritious meals, good sleep habits, and stress management all play a role in supporting cardiovascular wellness. When these habits are paired with the proactive care Medicare provides, you can better understand your risks and monitor key indicators over time.

1. Screenings and Diagnostic Tests

Identifying risk factors early can significantly reduce your chances of developing heart disease. Medicare Part B includes coverage for cholesterol, triglyceride, and lipid screenings every five years. It also covers blood pressure checks and diabetes screenings, both of which offer insight into cardiovascular risk.

If your doctor determines you have an elevated risk or a history of heart disease, Medicare may approve more frequent testing. Staying informed about your numbers helps your care team intervene early and create a plan that supports long-term heart health.

2. Support for Lifestyle and Behavioral Health

Medicare also offers one cardiovascular behavioral therapy session each year. This appointment allows your doctor to review your diet, activity levels, and medications, offering guidance tailored to your specific risk factors. It’s an opportunity to talk through changes that can positively influence your heart health with professional support.

3. Resources to Help You Quit Smoking

Smoking remains one of the most avoidable contributors to heart disease. Both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans provide coverage for counseling, cessation programs, and certain medications designed to help you quit. The benefits begin quickly — within a year of quitting, your risk of heart attack can drop dramatically. Taking steps to stop smoking is one of the most powerful decisions you can make for your heart.

4. Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs

For those recovering from a heart attack, bypass surgery, angioplasty, or valve replacement, Medicare includes coverage for both standard and intensive cardiac rehabilitation. These structured programs involve supervised exercise, education, and medical support. Their goal is to help you regain strength, improve circulation, and lower the likelihood of future cardiac issues.

5. Hospital Care and Procedures

Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital stays tied to cardiac events, including necessary surgeries and recovery periods. This coverage typically includes semiprivate rooms, meals, and nursing care after a qualifying hospital stay. These benefits offer important financial protection during times when comprehensive medical care is essential.

6. Annual Wellness Visits and Ongoing Monitoring

The annual wellness visit, covered through Medicare Part B, is another valuable tool in monitoring your heart health. During this visit, your provider can review vital signs, discuss risk factors, and determine if additional screenings are appropriate. Many plans cover the visit at no added cost, making it an easy way to stay engaged in preventive care.

Why Preventive Care Makes a Difference

Preventive care is about acting before a problem becomes serious. By using Medicare’s covered services and staying committed to healthy habits, you increase your chances of catching concerns early while gaining the knowledge needed to make informed choices. These tools are designed to support you every step of the way, making proactive heart care more accessible.

Final Thoughts

Heart disease may be common, but it is not unavoidable. By blending mindful lifestyle choices with the wide range of preventive resources available through Medicare, you can take meaningful steps toward protecting your heart. This American Heart Month, schedule your wellness visit, review your preventive benefits, and choose one positive change that strengthens your heart throughout the year.