Medicare will soon pay for obesity screenings and prevention services.

The new benefits are intended to prevent diseases associated with obesity such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

"Obesity is a challenge faced by Americans of all ages, and prevention is crucial for the management and elimination of obesity in our country," said Donald Berwick, administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

"It's important for Medicare patients to enjoy access to appropriate screening and preventive services," he said.
    
The service will teach those who qualify how to eat healthier and lose weight. Counseling will take place every week for one month and every other week for the following five months.
    
If a patient is losing weight, the sessions can continue for an additional six months.