What the visit includes
The Annual Wellness Visit is a sit-down with your doctor to review your health and plan the year ahead. It is not a head-to-toe physical, and that surprises some patients. It is a conversation and a plan. During the visit we:
- Review your medical history, your family history, and every medicine and supplement you take
- Check height, weight, blood pressure, and other basic measurements
- Screen for memory problems, depression, and fall risk
- Make a written schedule of the screenings and vaccines you are due for, such as colonoscopy, mammogram, bone density, and shingles vaccine
- Talk about advance care planning if you want to
What it costs
Nothing, if you have had Medicare Part B for more than 12 months and it has been at least a year since your last wellness visit. There is no copay and no deductible. The first one is called the Welcome to Medicare visit and works the same way.
Wellness visit or physical?
If something is bothering you, say a new pain or a medicine that is not working, that is a separate problem visit and your usual copay applies. We can often handle both on the same day, and our staff will explain how it is billed so there are no surprises.
What to bring
- Your Medicare card and any Medicare Advantage card
- Every pill bottle, or a written list with doses
- The names of any other doctors you see
- Your glasses and hearing aids, if you use them
- A family member, if you would like a second set of ears
Common questions
-
Is the Medicare Annual Wellness Visit really free?
Yes. Medicare Part B and Medicare Advantage plans cover it in full once every 12 months, with no copay or deductible.
-
Is it the same as a physical?
No. It is a review of your health and a prevention plan, not a full physical exam. If you also need a problem addressed, that part is billed as a regular visit.
-
Do I need to fast or prepare?
No fasting is required for the wellness visit itself. If your doctor orders labs the same day, the staff will tell you ahead of time.
-
Can I book one at either office?
Yes. Both the Pine Forest and Commercial Circle offices offer Medicare Annual Wellness Visits. Call (936) 271-2222 and ask for one by name.