Medicare Annual Wellness Visits: What You Need to Know
Patients with Medicare insurance coverage are qualified for an Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) with their primary care provider
every twelve months. These visits are designed to initiate, develop, or update a personal care plan to maintain a good personal bill of health and take precautionary measures to prevent the development of additional health conditions.
The plan you and your provider establish can provide valuable health support for existing conditions and even prevent some disabilities and diseases. Read on to discover what you need to know about these yearly wellness visits.
What It Is
Your healthcare provider will examine your current health status and assess risk factors that could begin to affect your quality of life. During an AWV, your provider will assess:
- your vitals, including your height, weight, blood pressure, pulse, and breathing rate,
- your medical history, including your family’s medical history,
- your current medical needs concerning all providers, prescriptions, and medical equipment you utilize,
- your potential health risks, specifically through a risk-assessment questionnaire,
- and signs of any cognitive impairment, such as dementia, mood disorders, or Alzheimer’s disease.
An AWV also facilitates discussion between you and your provider about individual health advice. It’s also a good time for your doctor to answer any questions you may have about your personal health.
What It Costs
Under Medicare policies, your visit is fully covered, including your deductible, once every twelve months. Additional costs during the visit may incur if your provider orders any tests or scans outside of the covered preventative services.
Why Medicare Annual Wellness Visits Are Important
An AWV is an essential part of your personal healthcare. These yearly visits give you and your doctor an opportunity to monitor existing health conditions, anticipate the development of new issues, and customize your treatment plan to best suit your wellness goals.
AWVs are an investment in your personal health and wellness, and they help you stay healthier through treatment and prevention efforts devised with your health factors in mind.
Why Your VitalCare Is the Best Choice for an Medicare Annual Wellness Visits
Your trusted primary care provider likely has more experience with your personal treatment history than other providers and can work with you to develop a more informed personal healthcare plan.
Your family doctor is best equipped to determine your specific medical needs and provide you with individual guidance to maintain a standard of health that supports and even improves your quality of life. VitalCare Family Practice knows that keeping your family healthy and happy is your first priority. It’s ours too. If you’re due for an Annual Wellness Visit, contact us to schedule an appointment!
