Alcohol misuse screenings & counseling
Medicare Coverage Information
Overview
Medicare provides coverage for annual alcohol misuse screenings and counseling to help beneficiaries identify and address potential alcohol-related health risks. These preventive services are designed to support early intervention and promote overall health and wellness.
- Annual alcohol misuse screening is covered for all Medicare beneficiaries
- Up to 4 counseling sessions are included during the screening
- Primary care providers can conduct screenings during annual wellness visits
- Screenings are confidential and part of preventive care services
- No additional cost for eligible beneficiaries
- All Medicare Part B beneficiaries
- Adults who are deemed at risk for alcohol misuse
- No age restrictions for screening
- No copayment or coinsurance for screening and counseling
- Covered 100% when provided by a Medicare-approved healthcare provider
- Services count towards preventive care benefits
- Screenings must be conducted by qualified primary care physicians or practitioners
- Limited to one screening per year
- Maximum of 4 brief counseling sessions per screening
- Requires a referral from primary care provider
- Discuss alcohol use with your primary care physician
- Schedule an annual wellness visit
- Ask about free alcohol misuse screening and counseling
- Contact Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE for specific questions
Last updated: 6/15/2025
Quick Information
- Provider
- Medicare
- Last Updated
- 6/15/2025
- Topics
- Medicarealcohol misuse screeningpreventive careMedicare counselingalcohol use disorder
Related Coverage Topics
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