What is a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit and How Is It Different from an Annual Physical
Staying healthy starts with knowing what care you may need. A Medicare Annual Wellness Visit, sometimes called a Yearly Wellness Visit, gives you and your primary care provider time to talk about your health and create or update a plan to help you stay well.
What happens during a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit?
Your provider may:
- Review your medications
- Talk about your medical and family history
- Check basic measurements, such as your height, weight and blood pressure
- Talk with you about screenings and vaccines you may need
- Discuss ways to help you stay healthy
- Create or update your personal prevention plan
Medicare also includes a cognitive assessment as part of the Annual Wellness Visit.
Is it the same as an annual physical?
No. This is an important difference.
A Medicare Annual Wellness Visit is focused on prevention and planning. It is not a routine physical exam. If you have a new health problem or specific concern, you may need a separate appointment.
How often can you have one?
Medicare Part B covers a Yearly Wellness Visit once every 12 months for eligible patients. Under Original Medicare, you pay nothing for the Wellness Visit if your provider accepts assignment, although additional services provided during the visit may have a cost.
Getting Ready for Your Visit?
A little preparation can help you get more from your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit. Knowing what information to bring, including your medication list, can help you and your provider make the most of your time together.
Next: What to Bring to Your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit
Make time for your health.
Your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit is a chance to look ahead, ask questions and make a plan for your health.
Is it time for your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit? Schedule a visit with your HealthNet primary care team.