If you are a Medicare patient, you may be eligible for free annual wellness visits. These are an important part of preventative care and help detect health problems before they become serious.
During a wellness visit, your doctor may ask you about your weight, height, and blood pressure. He or she may also review your current lifestyle and family history.
1. They are an important part of preventative care
Most insurance plans cover preventive care, including wellness visits.
During your annual wellness visit, you and your doctor will discuss your current health status. They may also perform tests and exams to check for certain diseases.
You can save money on your healthcare bills by catching problems early. For example, if your doctor notices that your blood pressure is increasing, they can prescribe you medication to help lower it.
This type of visit is different from problem-oriented visits, where you go because you are having some health issue and want to find out what is causing it.
Studies have shown that clinical preventive services (CPS) delivered during a wellness visit can reduce mortality and morbidity but Americans receive only half of recommended care. This study aims to understand the types of discussions and volume of care delivered during wellness visits. It will also explore the number of CPSs delivered and new diagnoses identified to better understand how wellness visits impact patient health outcomes.
2. They enhance the quality of your life
Getting a regular wellness checkup is one of the best ways to build a relationship with your doctor. This is because it gives you the opportunity to ask questions and raise any health concerns that may arise.
You can also discuss your goals with your doctor. For example, you can tell them that you would like to have a stronger core or lose weight.
This will help you establish a strong and productive relationship with your doctor, which will result in better care for you in the future.
Unlike annual physicals, wellness visits focus on detecting any medical issues in the early stages and help you prevent certain conditions from developing. This increases your chances of living a longer and healthier life.
3. They are free to Medicare patients
As a Medicare patient, you are entitled to a free wellness visit with your primary care provider. This exam is covered once every 12 months (11 full months must have passed since your last annual wellness visit).
Your doctor will assess your health and risk factors for disease, as well as create or update a preventive care plan. The visit is a good way to identify potential problems early so they can be addressed and treated sooner.
In addition to your physical, the wellness visit also screens for depression, fall risks, home safety and cognitive impairment. It is a vital part of your overall health.
However, there are some limitations to what is covered during a wellness visit. If your doctor performs a blood test, X-rays or other diagnostic services during your visit, you may be responsible for paying out of pocket.
4. They are a good way to build a relationship with your doctor
Developing a good relationship with your doctor is essential to your health. It can help you get the medical care you need, and can also prevent you from developing serious diseases.
When you have a strong relationship with your doctor, it’s easier for them to understand you and respond quickly and effectively to your health concerns. That can make a huge difference in your overall well-being and quality of life, according to the National Institutes of Health.
It can also save you money. Research suggests that annual wellness visits can reduce the costs of chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease and cancer.
However, the best way to build a strong relationship with your doctor is to communicate openly and honestly with them. It’s important to be honest about your health and lifestyle choices so that they can give you the best advice possible.