With the end of the year only several months away, it’s a good time to schedule your annual wellness visit, or to start thinking about next year’s so you can stay on top of your health. But what exactly is an annual wellness visit? And how is it different from a physical?
What is it?
An annual wellness visit (AWV) is an opportunity to look at the future of your health and health care. The AWV covers:
• Your health and medical history.
• Your family medical history.
• Care you’re getting from specialists and other health care providers.
• Your medications—both prescription and over-the-counter—as well as any supplements or vitamins you take.
• Key measurements and medically appropriate screenings (height, weight, blood pressure, etc.).
• How to live safely in your living environment.
As you can see, the annual wellness visit takes into account the whole picture of your health, while a physical exam focuses more on the body (blood tests, reflexes, vital signs, and more). After your AWV, your provider will give you a complete, personalized plan to help you stay healthy and live your best life, as well as create a schedule for yearly screenings.
How much does it cost?
There are no additional costs for an annual wellness visit, there is no impact on your coverage, your rates or anything related to your plan.
How do I prepare?
Just take a list of questions you want to ask your provider and something to take notes with, like a notebook or your phone, plus a list of your current prescriptions and over-the-counter medications. You don’t even have to fast.
How can I schedule one?
Schedule your annual wellness visit by calling your provider. You can also learn more about preventive care by visiting the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota Medicare preventive healthy living website, bluecrossmn.com/ medicare-preventive. And if you need help finding a provider within your network, use the “find a doctor” tool at bluecrossmn.com/find-a-doctor.
To submit a question for Ask the Doctor, email thriveNewsletter@bluecrossmn.com.