Medicare’s Welcome to Medicare and Annual Wellness Visits for Patients Enrolled in Medicare Part B
At Franciscan Medical Group, we want to help ensure you understand the benefits of your Medicare coverage. New Medicare Part B insured patients are eligible for an Initial Preventive Physical Examination (IPPE) when you initially join the program. Every year after that first year, you are eligible for an Annual Wellness Visit.
We have found that patients new to Medicare Part B coverage are often confused about the difference between these two types of visits. Below you will find a high level overview of both visits which we hope you will find helpful in better understanding these benefits.
Initial Preventive Physical Examination
The IPPE, otherwise known as the “Welcome to Medicare” visit, is strictly for those patients new to Medicare. This a one-time only exam paid for by Medicare for beneficiaries who have enrolled in the Medicare Part B program within the last 12 months.
This preventive visit is a health risk assessment that allows for you and your doctor to discuss short- and long-term steps to prevent disease, improve your health, and stay well. Research shows there is usually a better outcome when diseases are detected early.
Annual Wellness Visit
In 2011, Medicare began paying for an annual wellness visit (AWV) with your primary care provider, and there are no co-pays or deductibles for this visit.
The annual wellness visit is a strategy session designed to help you and your primary care provider develop an ongoing health plan intended to keep you healthy, safe, and independent for a long time.
The purpose of your annual wellness visit is to review your medical history, identify any potential health risks, and develop a personalized preventive services plan that will include appropriate health screenings.
If after your visit your health care provider determines additional evaluation is necessary, there may be a fee associated with some services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medicare’s “Welcome to Medicare and Annual Wellness Visits”
Franciscan Medical Group Annual Wellness Visit Acknowledgement form
