Make the Most of Your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit

If you only see your doctor when you’re sick, the appointment may go by so quickly that you don’t have a chance to ask all your health questions. That’s why it’s important to schedule a yearly visit with your doctor to review your overall health. 

Did you know that Medicare offers an annual wellness visit at no cost to you to help you stay on top of your health? This visit is all about you being as healthy as possible and getting the right care for you!

 

What is a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit?

A Medicare annual wellness visit is an annual check-up that's different from a regular physical exam. While it doesn’t involve any tests or treatment, It’s a chance to talk with your doctor about your overall health and wellness. The goal is to help prevent future health problems and keep you healthy for years to come.

 

Medicare Covers Two Types of Wellness Visits:

1. The Initial Preventive Physical Exam (IPPE) – This visit is for when you're new to Medicare.  It takes place within the first 12 months of your Medicare Part B coverage.
2. The Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) – After your first year on Medicare, you’re eligible for this visit every year to review your health and update your personal health plan.

If you have Original Medicare, you might need to pay a coinsurance, and the Part B deductible could apply if your doctor does extra tests or services during the same visit that Medicare doesn't cover under this preventive benefit.*

 

How to Prepare for Your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit

To make sure you get the most out of your annual wellness visit, a little preparation can go a long way. Here are three tips to help you get ready:

1. Review Your Health History: Before your visit, take a moment to look over your medical history. This includes any medications you’re taking, past surgeries, and family health history. Having this information on hand will help your doctor better understand your health needs.
2. Write Down Your Health Concerns: It’s easy to forget things when you’re sitting in the doctor’s office. Write down any health concerns, questions, or symptoms you’ve been experiencing, even if they seem minor. Your doctor will appreciate knowing about everything on your mind.
3. Prepare a List of Medications: Make sure to bring a list of all the medications you’re taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements. This helps your doctor check for any possible interactions and make adjustments if necessary.

 

What Happens During a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit?

Your Medicare annual wellness visit is an opportunity to discuss your general health with your doctor. Here’s what you can expect during your appointment:

• Regular checks for height, weight, and blood pressure
• Review of your medical and family history
• Overview of your current medications
• Personalized health advice
• Planning for future healthcare needs
• Schedule for check-ups and preventive services
• Optional risk assessment to understand how social needs affect health
• Discussion of habits (exercise, diet, smoking) and health concerns

This visit is all about you being as healthy as possible!
 

Tips to Make the Most of Your Wellness Visit

Now that you know what to expect, let’s talk about some tips from Medicare.gov that can help you make the most of your visit.

1. Bring a Family Member or Friend: If you’re nervous or forgetful, it’s a good idea to bring someone you trust to your appointment. They can help you remember what the doctor says and ask questions you might have forgotten.
2. Discuss Your Mental Health: Your wellness visit isn’t just about your physical health—it’s also a chance to talk about your mental health. If you’re feeling depressed, anxious, or struggling with memory problems, let your doctor know. Medicare covers important screenings, and there are treatments available to help.
3. Ask About Chronic Disease Management: If you have a chronic condition (like diabetes, arthritis, or heart disease), ask your doctor about management plans or new treatments. Your doctor can help you create a care plan to improve your quality of life.
4. Take Notes During Appointment: Taking notes during your appointment helps you remember important health details. Doctors often share lots of information that’s easy to forget, so writing it down helps you keep track of advice so you can share it with family or other doctors.
5. Track Your Progress: Keep track of your health from year to year. At each wellness visit, ask for a summary of the appointment and any actions you need to take. Keeping these records helps you see your progress and stay motivated to stick to your health plan.

 

How to Schedule Your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit?

Just call your doctor’s office and let them know you’d like to schedule your Medicare annual wellness visit. If it’s your first time, be sure to ask about the Initial Preventive Physical Exam (IPPE). 

Medicare annual wellness visits are a great opportunity to take charge of your health and prevent future problems. 

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Looking for more Medicare tips? Explore our latest blogs for practical tips to make healthier choices and get the most from your Medicare benefits.  

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*Source: https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/yearly-wellness-visits

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