Does the plan deductible need to be satisfied before preventive services are covered by the plan?

The correct answer is that the plan deductible does not need to be satisfied before preventive services are covered by the plan. This is a key feature of Medicare Advantage and Part D plans, as they are typically designed to encourage preventive care utilization without imposing financial barriers on the patient.

Preventive services are intended to detect health issues early on, thereby reducing the likelihood of more serious health problems and minimizing healthcare costs overall. Under Medicare guidelines, certain preventive services are covered at no cost, meaning that beneficiaries can access these services without having to meet a deductible first. Examples of these services include annual wellness visits, screenings for various diseases, and immunizations.

This aspect of coverage helps ensure that individuals can maintain their health proactively, making it easier for them to seek out necessary care without the worry of initial out-of-pocket expenses.