ACCESS' Guide to Medicare Annual Wellness Visits
While winter brings more exposure to germs and illnesses like the flu, older adults should still take the time to check in with their provider while they are well too. For Medicare recipients, a great place to start is by scheduling their annual wellness visit. At a Medicare annual wellness visit, you will have an entire hour with your provider to discuss your overall concerns, get answers to your questions, and make sure your next year is filled with good health.
What is a Medicare annual wellness visit?
This appointment is your opportunity to have an hour-long conversation with your provider on a yearly basis to talk about your medical history, identify any health risks you may have, and talk about social needs. Together, you will create a plan that helps you live a happier, healthier life.
How do I prepare for a Medicare annual wellness visit?
Your Medicare annual wellness visit is your chance to ask your provider any questions you have about your health and wellness. Have you noticed it’s harder to see or hear? Are there symptoms that are making your day-to-day life more difficult? It may be helpful to write down your questions and bring them with you, along with a list of the medications you are taking, a list of specialists or other doctors you see, and anything in your medical history you want your provider to know.
Who is eligible for a Medicare annual wellness visit?
All Medicare Part B recipients who have been enrolled for over 12 months and have not scheduled an annual wellness visit within the last 12 months are eligible. If this sounds confusing, an ACCESS patient benefit specialist can work with you to determine your eligibility.
How much does a Medicare annual wellness visit cost?
If you are enrolled in Medicare Part B and have not had an annual wellness visit within the last 12 months, your visit is completely covered by your insurance. Medicare annual wellness visits are not physicals, however in some cases your provider may decide to diagnose, test, or treat a new or existing condition. If this happens, you may have to pay a copayment or deductible. Our patient benefit specialists are ready to walk you through any coverage or cost questions before your appointment.
I’m not enrolled in Medicare, but I think I’m eligible. What should I do?
ACCESS patients can receive personalized support through our patient benefit specialists. Call the ACCESS Benefits Hotline at 312.526.2500 or send an email to benefits@achn.net to get personal help or visit medicare.gov for more information.
How can we help?
Call 1.866.267.2353 to schedule your Medicare annual wellness visit with your ACCESS provider today.
As of January 22, 2024