Understanding your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit
Your Annual Wellness Visit provides an opportunity for you and your healthcare team to discuss your health history, any concerns you may have regarding your current health status and to review your medications and immunizations. This also provides a time when you and your healthcare team review your existing health problems and determine what preventative services you may need to help maintain your personal wellness and reduce future health problems.
How is the Annual Wellness Visit different than a regular exam?
This is not the same as a yearly physical exam. You will not get screenings such as blood tests during this visit. If you are not feeling well or are concerned about a medical problem, we would need to schedule another appointment.
Do I have to pay for the visit?
Based on your Medicare eligibility, Medicare will pay for the Annual Wellness Visit and you will not have an out-of-pocket expense.
You might have a copayment for some of the screening services and follow-up visits, which is typical for additional services or screenings.
During your visit, if you receive additional tests or services not covered under these preventive benefits, you may have a copay and the Part B deductible may apply.
What do I need to bring to my Annual Wellness Visit?
You will need to complete a Health Risk Assessment prior to your visit. Your physician’s office will mail the form to you in advance of your visit. The assessment includes:
- A list of your current medications, vitamins and supplements
- A list of your current healthcare providers and medical supply stores that you use
Please bring your completed Health Risk Assessment, your medications including your over-the-counter drugs and a copy of your living will or any advance directives that you have with you to your visit.
What will happen at my Annual Wellness Visit?
You’ll talk with your healthcare team about your medical history, your risk for certain diseases, the current state of your health and your plan for staying well.
We will ask you to fill out a health risk- screening questionnaire, which includes questions about your living environment, diet, exercise habits and daily activities.
We will measure your height, weight and blood pressure and will perform screenings to detect changes in your health.
Based on the information gathered during this appointment, we may discuss additional Medicare screening and preventive services available to you, as well as provide you with information to address other health concerns.
