What Is the UnitedHealthcare Annual Wellness Visit?

The Medicare annual wellness visit is a benefit that's offered with all Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) plans, including those offered by UnitedHealthcare. UnitedHealthcare offers Medicare Advantage plans through a partnership with AARP.

This yearly doctor's appointment is an opportunity to assess your health, ask questions and identify ways to stay healthy in the coming 12 months. Before you call your provider to schedule the visit, it's helpful to understand what to expect and how to prepare.

About the UnitedHealthcare Annual Wellness Visit

The UnitedHealthcare annual wellness visit is an appointment with your primary care provider. During the visit, your doctor will assess your overall health, conduct screenings and create or update your personal wellness plan.

The annual wellness visit is different from a physical exam. If you need a full physical, check your UnitedHealthcare plan for coverage details.

What UnitedHealthcare Plans Offer the Annual Wellness Visit?

All UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans offer the annual wellness visit. This is because the government requires health insurance companies that sell Medicare Advantage plans to provide at least the same benefits as Original Medicare (Part A and Part B).

With government-administered Medicare, you qualify for the annual wellness visit after you've been enrolled in Part B for more than 12 months. Your UnitedHealthcare plan may allow you to schedule the visit earlier — check your quote or benefits statement for specifics.

Do I Need To Pay for the UnitedHealthcare Annual Wellness Visit?

In most cases, you won't need to pay for the annual wellness visit if you go to one of UnitedHealthcare's in-network providers. If you choose to visit an out-of-network doctor, you may be responsible for part or all of the cost. Refer to your policy documents for payment details.

Your doctor may recommend additional services or treatments after this appointment. These procedures are billed separately from the wellness visit, so they may not be covered by your insurance.

What To Expect During the UnitedHealthcare Annual Wellness Visit

Every wellness visit can be tailored to the individual, but most exams include:

• Assessment of weight and body measurements
• Screenings for cancers, such as breast, lung, cervical and colorectal
• Blood pressure screening
• Cognitive assessment
• Flu vaccine

Your doctor may also screen you for conditions based on your health history and risk factors. This might include screenings for diabetes, prostate cancer and age- or gender-related conditions.

In addition to screenings, you'll probably be asked to complete a Health Risk Assessment. This form includes questions about topics, such as your:

• Current health
• Medical history
• Physical activity
• Lifestyle
• Diet and nutrition
• Alcohol and tobacco use
• Dental hygiene

Many risk assessments also include questions about your personal safety habits, emotional support, mental health and employment.

Personal Wellness Plan

The wellness plan is another key component of the annual wellness visit.

During your first visit, your doctor will help you create a personalized wellness plan based on the screenings and risk assessment. This plan is designed to provide individual guidance to help you build healthier habits and address any issues you're facing. You can expect to review and adjust your wellness plan at each future wellness visit.

Can I Ask Questions During the Annual Wellness Visit?

The annual wellness visit is the ideal time to ask questions or express concerns. Feel free to bring up any issues, particularly if they pertain to your family health history or current needs.

It can also be helpful to bring a friend, family member or caregiver to the appointment for support; they might have questions you wouldn't think to ask.

Should I Bring Anything to the UnitedHealthcare Annual Wellness Visit?

When you schedule an annual wellness visit, your doctor's office will probably request that you bring your insurance card; they may also send you the Health Risk Assessment form to fill out in advance.

It's also a good idea to bring a detailed list of your medications — both prescription and over-the-counter. You should also make a list of all the natural supplements and vitamins you take. If that seems overwhelming, simply bring the medication bottles and packages with you. The doctor will check them for potential adverse interactions to help you stay safe.

Before your appointment, take time to jot down all of your questions and concerns, and bring the list with you as a reminder. You may also want to pack a notebook to take notes during the visit.

What Happens After the Annual Wellness Visit?

Follow-up care can vary based on your health. If the doctor feels you need further testing or screening, they may refer you to specialists, treatment facilities or labs. Many providers will print out a set of instructions to help you achieve the goals in your wellness plan.

When Should I Schedule the Annual Wellness Visit?

You can schedule an annual wellness visit as soon as it's available through your UnitedHealthcare plan. Typically, your primary care provider conducts the appointment. If you're new to UnitedHealthcare, make sure to review the list of in-network doctors in your area.

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