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In short What the visit is How it differs from a physical Welcome to Medicare visit Get ready Vaccines and screenings If you do not have Part B yet Common questions SourcesMedicare covers a yearly wellness visit to build and update a prevention plan. It is not the same as a physical exam. Medicare.gov says you pay nothing for it if your provider accepts assignment, though other services you get at the same appointment may have costs.
What the visit is
The yearly wellness visit is a planning visit. Your provider reviews your health history, updates your list of medicines and providers, checks things like height, weight and blood pressure, and talks with you about preventive care that fits your situation. You can read what Medicare says it includes on Medicare.gov.
How it differs from a physical
Medicare.gov says the wellness visit is not a physical exam. Original Medicare generally does not cover a routine head-to-toe physical. If you and your provider decide to do extra tests or services at the same appointment, those may be billed separately and you may owe a share. Ask before the visit. Our guide on what to expect at an annual physical explains what a physical usually includes.
Welcome to Medicare visit
New enrollees in Part B can get a one-time Welcome to Medicare preventive visit during their first 12 months of Part B. The yearly wellness visit comes later, once you have had Part B for more than 12 months. Check Medicare.gov for the current timing and rules.
Get ready
Bring your insurance cards, a list of every medicine and supplement you take, and the names of your other doctors. Write down any health questions in advance. Our guide on questions to ask your doctor and preparing for a doctor visit can help.
Vaccines and screenings
Medicare covers several preventive services and vaccines, with different rules for each. Ask your provider which apply to you and what they cost. Our guide on adult vaccines lists the common ones.
If you do not have Part B yet
Without Part B you cannot get this visit through Medicare. See our page on what Original Medicare does not cover, and for cash prices on common services see visit prices and lab test prices.
Pymander is not a replacement for a physician and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Common questions
Does Medicare pay for a yearly wellness visit?
Yes, for people who have had Part B for more than 12 months. Medicare.gov says you pay nothing if your provider accepts assignment.
Is the wellness visit a physical?
No. Medicare.gov says it is not a physical exam. It is a visit to build a prevention plan.
What should I bring?
Your insurance cards, a list of medicines and supplements, and the names of your other providers.
Can Pymander do my wellness visit?
No. Pymander is not a Medicare provider and does not examine you. It can help you prepare questions. Pymander is available in all 50 states.
Pymander is not a replacement for a physician and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.