While both adult wellness visits and Medicare annual wellness visits aim to maintain and improve your health, there are key differences between the two:
Adult wellness visits are for individuals of all ages, whereas Medicare annual wellness visits are specifically for those enrolled in Medicare, typically age 65 and older.
Medicare annual wellness visits are covered by Medicare Part B and focus on preventive health services for older adults. In contrast, the coverage for adult wellness visits depends on your specific health insurance plan.
Both types of visits include reviewing medical history, conducting preventive screenings, and discussing lifestyle factors. However, Medicare annual wellness visits often include additional elements like developing or updating a personalized prevention plan and screening for cognitive impairment.
Both visits are typically conducted once a year, but the structure and components of the Medicare annual wellness visit may vary based on specific Medicare guidelines.
A Medicare Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) is a yearly appointment with your health care provider focused on preventive care. Unlike a routine physical, the AWV is designed to create or update a personalized prevention plan to help prevent disease and disability based on your current health and risk factors.
During your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit, your health care provider will:
Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers an Annual Wellness Visit once every 12 months. You are eligible if you have had Medicare Part B for more than 12 months and have not had an Initial Preventive Physical Examination (also known as the "Welcome to Medicare" visit) or an AWV in the past 12 months.
The Medicare Annual Wellness Visit is covered by Medicare Part B. There is no cost to you for the Annual Wellness Visit itself, but you may have to pay coinsurance, and the Part B deductible may apply if you receive additional services or tests during the same visit.
Yes, you can have both, but they are different services. The AWV focuses on preventive care and creating a personalized prevention plan, while a routine physical is a more comprehensive examination of your overall health. Be sure to check with your provider before scheduling a physical exam, since Medicare does not cover the cost of an annual physical exam except for the initial preventive physical examination (IPPE).
If you need more frequent check-ups due to specific health conditions or concerns, discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can recommend the best schedule for your needs.
To get the most out of your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit:
Maintaining your health isn't just about seeing a doctor when you're sick; it's about taking proactive steps to ensure long-term well-being. This is where adult wellness visits come into play. These annual check-ups are vital for preventing diseases, catching health issues early, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
An adult wellness visit is a comprehensive check-up that allows your healthcare provider to evaluate your overall health. It typically includes:
Adults 19 through 64 years.
To get the most out of your Adult Wellness Visit: