Get to Know the Benefits of the Medicare Annual Wellness Visit
Wellness and prevention are important parts of your ongoing health as you age, and the first step could be simpler than you think: schedule a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit with a care provider at your primary care office.
A key focus of the Medicare Annual Wellness Visit is the conversation between patient and provider to create a plan of care that will allow you to live your healthiest, happiest, and best life, through prevention and wellness.
What happens during the Medicare Annual Wellness Visit?
This appointment is not about blood work and testing, diagnosing new health conditions, getting prescriptions prescribed or refilled, or even a physical examination. Instead, it’s an important conversation with a care provider (Physician, Advanced Practitioner or Registered Nurse) who reviews your medical history and can provide valuable guidance to help you get well and stay well, based on your age and health goals.
By the end of the visit, you will have actionable steps you can take to achieve your health goals.
Who is eligible for this visit?
Your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit may be available to you at no cost. You are eligible if:
- You have been enrolled in Medicare Part B for more than 12 months
- You have not received an Annual Wellness Visit in the past 12 months
- It has been more than 12 months since your “Welcome to Medicare Visit” – also known as your Initial Preventive Physician Exam (this is a one-time Medicare benefit that occurs within the first 12 months of your Medicare Part B coverage)
It is important that you understand your coverage prior to your appointment. Your provider’s office should be able to provide your eligibility or direct you on who to call to confirm.
What steps should be taken to prepare for this appointment?
There are a few things you can do, to be prepared for your scheduled visit:
- Complete and return any forms or paperwork provided by your provider’s office, in advance of your appointment.
- Request copies of your medical and immunization records from other care providers, if appropriate
- Make a list of current care providers you see, and why
- Bring medications currently take with you, or make a list noting the name of the medication, the dosage, the frequency that you take it, and why it is prescribed
- Take notes on any family medical issues that could impact your personal health.
What will be discussed, beyond my medical needs?
Wellness is about more than just your medical and physical needs. Lifestyle factors play an important role, too. During your visit, your provider may also want to discuss:
- Your overall feelings and satisfaction with how your life is going
- Where you live and if your home is safe
- Ways to reduce your risk for falls
- If you have access to health, nutritious foods
- If you have sufficient means for transportation
- Your ability to perform activities of daily living such as getting dressed, feeding yourself, using the bathroom independently, personal grooming, light housekeeping, going grocery shopping, and managing your medications
- Your mental health, and if you are experiencing any signs of depression, anxiety, stress, or social isolation
- Lifestyle choices that could impact your wellness, such as smoking, drug, and alcohol use.
The conversation that takes place will also involve questions about current medications you are taking (and if they are effective), and your family medical history.
Five Key Takeaways
The Medicare Annual Wellness Visit typically takes 30-60 minutes. At the conclusion of your appointment, you should come away with a better understanding of:
- The current state of your health.
- The steps can be taken to improve your health.
- Preventive screenings you should schedule.
- Ways to reduce your risks.
- The importance of establishing health goals.
What about those who don't have an existing primary care physician?
Looking for a provider that can perform your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit? Beebe Healthcare has a robust team of skilled and talented primary care providers who can meet your needs. Call 302-645-3332 to find the provider that is right for you.
