Understanding Medicare's Annual Wellness Visits

Staying ahead of potential health issues is an essential part of living a long and healthy life. For individuals with Medicare Part B, the yearly Wellness Visit offers a valuable opportunity to create or update a customized plan for disease prevention and health maintenance based on your unique health needs and risk factors.

What Is an Annual Wellness Visit?

The annual Wellness Visit is a preventive service covered by Medicare Part B for those who have been enrolled for at least 12 months. Unlike a physical exam, this visit focuses on evaluating your overall health and planning for your future wellness.

During the visit, your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a personalized prevention plan. This includes reviewing your medical history, current health status, and risk factors to determine appropriate preventive measures.

What to Expect at Your Visit

Here’s what your Wellness Visit may include:

• Routine Measurements: Tracking height, weight, and blood pressure.

• Medical and Family History Review: Discussing past and current health conditions and hereditary risks.

• Prescription Review: Ensuring your medications are effective and safe.

• Health Risk Assessment: Filling out a questionnaire to help identify health risks and goals.

• Personalized Guidance: Receiving advice tailored to your health needs and lifestyle.

• Screening Plan: Creating a schedule for preventive services like screenings and vaccinations.

• Cognitive Health Check: Assessing memory and thinking skills to identify signs of conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s.

• Social Health Factors: (Optional) Evaluating social and environmental factors that could impact your well-being.

  
  

Additional Assessments and Follow-Up

If your provider notices signs of cognitive impairment or other concerns, they may recommend further evaluation. Medicare covers a separate visit for more detailed cognitive testing and care planning if needed.

For those managing chronic pain or taking certain medications like opioids, the visit also includes a review of pain management plans, potential substance use risks, and non-opioid treatment options.

Cost and Coverage

There’s no cost for the annual Wellness Visit as long as your healthcare provider accepts Medicare. However, if additional tests or services outside the scope of the visit are performed, you may be responsible for coinsurance or other charges.

How to Prepare

To make the most of your visit:

• Bring a list of all medications, including over-the-counter supplements.

• Prepare a record of your medical history and any family health conditions.

• Write down any questions or concerns you’d like to discuss.

  
  

The annual Wellness Visit is a proactive way to stay in control of your health and address potential risks before they become larger concerns. If you’re eligible, schedule your visit today and take the next step in maintaining your health and independence.

Your health. Your plan. Your wellness.