You have selected your insurance plan for the year. Now, it’s time to start using your benefits, beginning with an annual wellness exam.
An annual wellness exam with a healthcare provider is important for everyone, but especially for older adults. As we age, we are more likely to develop chronic health conditions, according to Dr. J.B. Sobel, chief medical officer at Cigna Medicare, who serves hundreds of thousands of older adults through their products. An annual wellness exam can help detect potential health issues early so they can be addressed before they worsen, he added.
“By meeting with your primary care provider at the beginning of the year, you can highlight the things that are important to you and work together to develop a plan for your care for the year ahead,” Sobel said. “This will ensure that you live each day with vitality, happiness, and improved health.”
Many providers will reach out to schedule an annual wellness exam. If your provider does not contact you, be sure to call them.
Several annual exams are available at no extra cost for those with Medicare. They include a “Welcome to Medicare” visit for clients who have just become eligible for Medicare and an “Annual Wellness Exam” for existing clients. Many Medicare Advantage (MA) plans offer more extensive annual visits at no extra cost. Some even offer incentives for completing a visit. Talk to your provider and Medicare insurer about your benefits.
Each annual exam may be a little different. Regardless of the type, Sobel offers the following tips to ensure you get the most out of your visit.
Prepare. Before you go, write down anything you would like to discuss with your healthcare provider, including changes in your health over the past year. Bring your prescription and over-the-counter medications with you. Ask plenty of questions and take notes. You may even want to bring a family member, trusted friend, or caregiver to ensure you understand everything your provider shares.
Be open and honest. It’s tempting to make things sound rosier than they are when talking to your healthcare provider, but downplaying what you’re feeling can lead to an incorrect diagnosis or prescription. Speak openly about unhealthy habits, such as smoking or lack of exercise. Your provider will not judge you. Being honest is the only way your healthcare provider can help you achieve your goals.
Take care of your mental health. Your emotional health impacts your physical health. Many people think that depression is a natural part of aging, but it doesn’t have to be. Talk to your doctor if you are feeling sad, anxious, or hopeless. Treatments, such as talk therapy, medication, or both, may be covered by Medicare.
Monitor your medications. Adults aged 65 and older tend to take more medications than other age groups, increasing the risk of adverse reactions, such as cognitive impairment and falls. It’s a good idea to bring your medications to the annual wellness exam and discuss any potential issues or side effects you may be experiencing. Don’t forget over-the-counter medications, vitamins, or nutritional supplements you take.
Schedule screenings and vaccines. There are several important health screenings and vaccines you may need depending on your age and gender, such as colon cancer screening, bone density test, mammogram, flu vaccine, or COVID-19 immunization. Ask your provider about the screenings and vaccines you have already had and schedule any necessary ones as soon as possible. You may even be able to do this before leaving the office. Also, don’t forget to visit your eye doctor and dentist. These visits are covered by many MA plans as well. Learn more at www.cignamedicare.com.
“You wouldn’t drive your vehicle without proper preventive maintenance, so please don’t ignore preventive maintenance for your most precious possession – your health,” Sobel said. “An annual wellness exam is a great place to start!”
Source: StatePoint