HIV Screening

Preventive Care

HIV screening is about early detection and prevention.

Ask what screening schedule fits your risk.
Discuss prevention tools if you’re at risk.

The doctor focuses on his computer screen, with his patient visible in the background.

Medicare covers HIV screening under Part B with eligibility and frequency rules.

You typically pay nothing if rules are met and the provider accepts assignment.

Key takeaways

Screening frequency can be risk-based.
Early detection improves outcomes.
Confirm how often Medicare covers it for you.

Good to Know

Provider Accepts Assignment

In Original Medicare, “accepts assignment” means a provider agrees to Medicare’s approved amount as full payment (with you paying any required deductible/coinsurance). For many preventive services, using a provider who accepts assignment can help keep your costs lower and more predictable.

Frequency Limits

Many Medicare preventive services have frequency limits, meaning Medicare covers them only as often as allowed (for example, once every 12 months, once every five years, or once in your lifetime). The schedule varies by service.

Eligibility Rules

Many preventive services are covered only if you meet Medicare’s eligibility rules. These rules can include your age, risk factors, medical history, lab results, diagnoses, or timing (for example, being “at risk” for a screening).