Your health is one of your greatest assets—and taking time each year to check in on it can make a world of difference. That’s what the Medicare Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) is all about. More than just another doctor’s appointment, an AWV is a chance to focus on your long-term health, prevent problems before they start, and create a personalized plan to help you stay healthy.
At VIPcare, we believe preventive care is the key to better health. The Annual Wellness Visit is one of the most powerful tools available for prevention, helping our patients and providers work together to catch risks early and keep you feeling your best.
What Is an Annual Wellness Visit?
An Annual Wellness Visit isn’t a physical exam—it’s a comprehensive conversation and review of your health, designed specifically for people with Medicare. During your visit, your provider takes the time to understand your overall health, lifestyle, and future goals. Together, you’ll look at the big picture—everything from your medical history and medications to your emotional well-being and home safety.
Here’s what typically happens during an AWV:
- Review of your health history: Your provider updates your medical and family history to make sure your records are up to date and reflect any new conditions, medications, or changes in your life.
- Health risk assessment: You’ll discuss your current health status, daily habits, and any concerns you may have.
- Screenings and preventive services: Your provider will determine if you’re due for important screenings—such as blood pressure checks, cancer screenings, diabetes testing, or vaccinations—and help you get those scheduled.
- Cognitive and mental health check: The visit includes a simple evaluation to check for memory issues, depression, or anxiety.
- Personalized prevention plan: You’ll leave with a written plan that outlines what you can do to maintain or improve your health over the next year.
This visit is fully covered by Medicare—there’s no cost to you. It’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to stay on top of your health.
Why Your Annual Wellness Visit Matters
The AWV helps shift healthcare from reactive to proactive. Instead of waiting for symptoms or illness, your provider uses this time to spot early warning signs and take action before they become bigger issues. This focus on prevention helps reduce hospital visits, lower healthcare costs, and most importantly, keep you feeling well and independent.
It’s also an opportunity to strengthen your relationship with your provider. Because VIPcare physicians see fewer patients each day, they have more time to listen and learn about what truly matters to you. That personal connection helps us tailor your care plan to your individual goals and priorities, not just your lab results.
Even if you’re feeling perfectly healthy, your AWV provides a valuable snapshot of where you are now and where you want to go next with your health. It’s your chance to ask questions, review medications, discuss lifestyle changes, and get support in areas like nutrition, exercise, and emotional well-being.
How Annual Wellness Visits Fit into the Value-Based Care Model
The Annual Wellness Visit is a cornerstone of value-based care, the model VIPcare follows to deliver better health outcomes. In a traditional fee-for-service system, providers are paid based on the number of visits or procedures they perform. But in a value-based care system, providers are rewarded for keeping patients healthy. It’s quantity vs quality.
That’s why the AWV is so important. It’s not just about checking boxes—it’s about building a long-term partnership focused on prevention, quality, and personalized care.
During your AWV, your provider identifies potential risks and creates a care plan that helps you stay well, manage chronic conditions, and avoid unnecessary hospital visits. This proactive approach allows your care team to focus on what really matters: your health, your goals, and your quality of life.
At VIPcare, we use the information from your Annual Wellness Visit to coordinate your care more effectively. If you need a specialist, help managing a chronic condition, or additional resources like nutrition counseling, we make sure you get connected quickly. It’s all part of our mission to give you more time with your doctor, more attention to your needs, and more support to live life on your terms.
Take Charge of Your Health Today
If you haven’t had your Annual Wellness Visit yet this year, don’t wait—now is the perfect time to schedule it. Whether you’re managing chronic conditions or simply want to stay on top of your health, the AWV gives you and your provider the opportunity to plan for a healthier future together.
At VIPcare, we’re here to make preventive care easy, accessible, and personal. Let’s work together to keep you feeling your best.
It’s not too late to schedule your Annual Wellness Visit. Schedule your appointment today!
