Annual Wellness/Physical
18-64
65+
Why is it Important to be Seen on a Yearly Basis?
Annual checkups are designed to help uncover potential health concerns before they become major problems. It is also a way for the doctor to monitor existing health conditions. Keeping a close watch over conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and COPD will keep them from becoming worse. Progressive conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders can also be monitored and their progression slowed. Annual checkups are a great way to ensure the patient is maintaining a healthy weight and living a positive lifestyle. During an annual checkup, the doctor can point a patient's strengths and weaknesses, helping them to keep on track when it comes to good health and well-being.
What is Included in an Annual Checkup?
An annual checkup includes checking a patient's vital signs, monitoring any existing health conditions, and performing a thorough physical examination. The doctor will look for signs of any new illness or health condition. Depending on health conditions a patient has dealt with in the past, the doctor may ask for a stress test to evaluate the condition of the heart and cardiovascular system. During an annual checkup, the doctor will also try to answer any questions the patient may have about their health. Mammograms, pap smears, prostate exams, and flu shots will also be given during this appointment.
What are the Benefits of Early Detection?
During an annual wellness exam, many health conditions can be uncovered including breast cancer, prostate cancer, diabetes, heart conditions, and other life-threatening illnesses and diseases. Early detection can actually save a person's life. When caught in its earliest stages, certain health conditions will respond better to treatment. There will also be more treatment options to choose from. As a condition advances, the number of viable treatment options quickly diminishes. With today's advancements in technology, doctors can identify potential health problems before they begin to exhibit symptoms. This offers the patient and the doctor and advantage when it comes to effective treatment options.
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Some important clarifications about Annual Wellness Visits for Medicare Beneficiaries​​
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For some preventive services, you may pay nothing. For some services you may be required to pay co-insurance (a part of the cost) for the office visit when you receive these services.
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Your first yearly wellness exam cannot take place within 12 months of your “Welcome to Medicare” physical exam.
Information for Medicare/Medicare ACO/Replacement Beneficiaries
Our practice is pleased to provide you the following information that may improve your access to affordable healthcare if you are a Medicare beneficiary. On this page, please find information about who to contact for details. Please note Bestcare Internal Medicine requires all of our patients to schedule this visit yearly, it is to ensure all of your preventative measures are being met. Thank you for choosing us as your health care provider.
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More complete information can be found at www.healthcare.gov, a federal government website managed by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. You can find additional information about Preventive Services under the Medicare pages on www.healthcare.gov.
You should also contact your plan administrators for the most complete information on how you may qualify for these benefits.