I've heard Medicare covers an annual wellness visit. What exactly is included in this visit?
Answered by 15 licensed agents
Answered by Steve Houchens on April 10, 2025
Agent Licensed in KY & TN
Answered by Michael Ryan on June 3, 2025
Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, CO & 7 other states
It is not a Physical.
The annual wellness checkup is to review the patient's physical & mental wellness.
Taking this time each year maintains a plan for maintain health.
If the patient is encountering any health issues, they can be caught early.
Answered by Daniel Maisel on April 10, 2025
Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, MI & NV, OH, TN & WA
What’s included is annual female exams as well as internal medicine checkups, which can include an EKG. Men get their internal medical exams, including PSA screening and EKG’s. Periodic Colonoscopies are also covered as are bone density exams for women.
Answered by David Wiley on June 2, 2025
Broker Licensed in GA & NC
Answered by Aaron Solomon on April 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH, LA & TX
What is the Welcome to Medicare visit?
The Welcome to Medicare visit is a one-time preventive visit that occurs within the first 12 months of the Insured’s first enrollment in Medicare Part B. This is considered a once per lifetime benefit, meaning a member is only eligible when they sign up for Medicare for the first time. This visit is covered by Original Medicare as well as possibly a Medicare Advantage plan, the Insured would need to check with their Insurance Company to see if it is covered, when performed by the Insured’s primary care provider. This visit typically consists of a review of the patient’s medical and social history, an examination of the body like height, weight, BMI, blood pressure and other routine measurements, education and counseling about preventive services and more.
What is the Annual Wellness visit?
The Annual Wellness visit is a yearly preventive visit which is covered once per calendar year. The Annual Wellness visit is covered by Original Medicare as well as possibly some Medicare Advantage plans when performed by the Insured’s primary care provider. This visit allows the physician and patient to develop or update a personalized prevention plan. The Insured would need to check with their Insurance Company to see if covered.
This typically consists of a review of the patient’s Health Risk Assessment, an update of the patient’s medical and family history, and more. If the Insured has had Medicare Part B for at least 12 months, they do not need to have their Welcome to Medicare visit before getting the Annual Wellness Visit.
One of the biggest differentiators between the two visits is their timing.
Source: United Healthcare.
Answered by Andrew Zurbuch, MBA on April 11, 2025
Broker Licensed in IN, FL, KY, MO, OH & TN
Here's a more detailed breakdown of what's included: Key Components of the AWV:
Health Risk Assessment: You'll complete a questionnaire to assess your health status and risk factors. Vital Signs: Your doctor will measure your height, weight, and blood pressure.
Health History: You'll discuss your medical and family history, as well as any current health problems. Medication Review: You'll review your current medications.
Personalized Health Advice: Your doctor will provide advice to help you prevent diseases and stay healthy. Screening for Depression and Cognitive Issues: You may be screened for depression and cognitive issues like dementia or Alzheimer's. Advance Care Planning: You can discuss your preferences for future medical care. Preventive Services Checklist: Your doctor will review a checklist of recommended preventive services for you. Social Determinants of Health Assessment (Optional): This can help your doctor understand how your social situation might be affecting your health.
What's NOT Included in the AWV: Lab Tests or Other Procedures: The AWV doesn't typically include lab tests or other procedures requiring physical contact, although your doctor may refer you for those if needed. Annual Physical: While the AWV can be helpful, it's not the same as a full annual physical exam.
Key Takeaways: The AWV is a valuable opportunity to discuss your health with your doctor and develop a personalized plan to stay healthy.
Answered by Fred Manas on May 13, 2025
Agent Licensed in NY, CT, DC & 7 other states
Answered by Gary Henderson on April 10, 2025
Agent Licensed in TX, AK, AL & 46 other states
Answered by Carol Thompson on May 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL, LA, MI & NC, SC, VA & WI
Answered by Barbara Barnes, CMIP® on June 2, 2025
Agent Licensed in PA
Here's what's typically included, based on Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines:
Health Review: Discussion of your medical and family history, including any new health issues.
Vital Measurements: Checking height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and blood pressure.
Risk Assessments: Screening for risks like depression, falls, and cognitive impairment (e.g., memory issues).
Functional Review: Evaluation of your ability to perform daily activities and ensure home safety.
Medication Review: A list of your current prescriptions and over-the-counter medications to check for interactions or needs.
Personalized Prevention Plan: Creation or update of a written plan that includes:
Recommended screenings (e.g., for cancer, diabetes).
Vaccinations.
Counseling on healthy lifestyle choices (e.g., diet, exercise).
Provider and Social Review: Updating your list of healthcare providers and discussing community resources if needed.
Eligibility and Tips: You're eligible if you've had Medicare Part B for more than 12 months. Schedule it with your primary care provider or doctor who accepts Medicare. If you have questions about your specific coverage or need help finding a provider, let me know!
Answered by Tanja Roulhac on May 12, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL, AZ, CA & 7 other states
Answered by Donnie Vermillion on May 20, 2025
Broker Licensed in TX
Answered by Robert Barco on April 19, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH
Right now, Medicare won’t cover rehab in a skilled nursing facility unless you've been admitted as an inpatient in a hospital for at least three full days—and time spent under "observation status" doesn’t count, even if you’re in a hospital bed getting the same care.
This rule can confuse seniors, leave them with unexpected bills, and doesn’t reflect how modern healthcare is delivered. Many believe it’s time for this requirement to be updated to protect beneficiaries better.
Let me know if you would like to go over your current plan.
Answered by Ryan Ross on April 18, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL, GA, KS & 9 other states
Answered by Joseph Lombardo on April 18, 2025
Agent Licensed in NY, CT, NJ & PA
Tags: Coverage Medicare Part B
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