Wellness Exams: Your Comprehensive Guide to Annual Check-ups
Last Updated: January 2025Reviewed by: Dr. Tess Garcia, MDReading Time: 11 minutes
What is a Wellness Exam?
A wellness exam, also known as an annual physical or preventive care visit, is a comprehensive health assessment designed to maintain your well-being, detect potential health issues early, and establish a personalized prevention plan. Unlike sick visits that address specific symptoms, wellness exams focus on prevention and early detection when you're feeling healthy.
Key Purposes of Wellness Exams
Establish baseline health measurements and vital signs
Screen for diseases before symptoms appear
Update vaccinations and preventive care
Assess risk factors and lifestyle habits
Build relationship with your healthcare provider
Create personalized prevention strategies
Address health concerns and questions
Annual
Recommended frequency for most adults
45-60 min
Typical wellness exam duration
100%
Coverage for preventive services under most plans
Medicare Wellness Visits: Understanding Your Benefits
Medicare offers specific wellness benefits that differ from traditional physical exams. Understanding these differences helps you maximize your Medicare benefits and avoid unexpected costs.
Important Distinction
Medicare does NOT cover routine physical exams. The Medicare Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) is a prevention-focused assessment, not a head-to-toe physical examination. Mixing wellness and physical exam services may result in additional charges.
Welcome to Medicare Visit
One-Time Benefit (First 12 Months)
Available within first 12 months of Medicare Part B
Records medical and family history
Evaluates current health conditions and medications
Checks blood pressure, vision, weight, and height
Reviews preventive screening schedule
Provides education and counseling for preventive services
No copay or deductible when provider accepts assignment
While Medicare wellness visits focus on prevention planning, traditional wellness exams (often covered by private insurance or paid out-of-pocket) include more comprehensive physical assessments.
Medical History Review
Personal History
Past medical conditions and surgeries
Current medications and supplements
Allergies and reactions
Immunization records
Previous hospitalizations
Mental health history
Family History
Hereditary conditions
Cancer history in family
Heart disease and stroke
Diabetes and metabolic conditions
Mental health conditions
Genetic disorders
Physical Examination
Vital Signs & Measurements
Blood pressure and pulse
Temperature and respiratory rate
Height, weight, and BMI
Waist circumference
Oxygen saturation
Systems Review
Heart and lung examination
Abdominal assessment
Neurological screening
Skin examination
Musculoskeletal evaluation
Lymph node check
Laboratory Tests
Standard Blood Work
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Lipid panel (cholesterol)
Hemoglobin A1C (diabetes)
Thyroid function (TSH)
Vitamin D levels
Additional Screenings
Urinalysis
STI screening if indicated
Hepatitis C (one-time)
HIV testing
PSA for prostate (men)
Hormone levels if needed
Age-Specific Wellness Exam Guidelines
Wellness exam components and frequency vary based on age, with different focus areas for each life stage.
Pediatric Wellness (Birth-18 years)
Visit Schedule & Focus Areas
First year: 7 visits for growth, development, feeding
1-3 years: Every 6 months for milestones, behavior
3-18 years: Annual visits for growth, school readiness
Understanding the flow of a wellness exam helps reduce anxiety and ensures you're prepared for each component.
Check-in Process (10 minutes)
Verify insurance and demographic information
Update emergency contacts
Complete or review health questionnaires
Copay collection if applicable
With Medical Assistant (15 minutes)
Vital signs measurement
Weight and height check
Medication reconciliation
Chief complaint or concerns
Prepare for provider examination
Provider Examination (20-30 minutes)
Review of medical history
Discussion of health concerns
Physical examination as appropriate
Review of preventive care needs
Treatment plan discussion
Questions and answers
Wrap-up (5-10 minutes)
Order laboratory tests or imaging
Schedule follow-up appointments
Provide educational materials
Referrals if needed
After-visit summary
After Your Wellness Visit
The work doesn't end when you leave the office. Follow-through on recommendations is crucial for maintaining optimal health.
Next Steps
Review your after-visit summary and prevention plan
Schedule recommended screenings and specialist appointments
Complete laboratory tests if ordered
Fill new prescriptions or update medications
Implement lifestyle recommendations
Access test results through patient portal
Follow up on any abnormal findings
When to Contact Your Provider
Call if you have questions about test results, experience side effects from new medications, need clarification on recommendations, or if new symptoms develop before your next scheduled visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a wellness exam and a sick visit?
Wellness exams focus on prevention and health maintenance when you're feeling well. Sick visits address specific symptoms or acute health problems. Mixing both in one appointment may affect insurance coverage.
Will Medicare cover my annual physical?
No, Medicare doesn't cover routine physical exams. It covers Annual Wellness Visits (AWV) which focus on prevention planning, not physical examination. Additional services during an AWV may incur charges.
How often should I have a wellness exam?
Most adults benefit from annual wellness visits. Those under 30 without health issues might go every 2-3 years. Children need more frequent visits based on age. Your provider will recommend appropriate timing.
Do I need to fast before my wellness exam?
Fasting for 8-12 hours is typically required if blood work includes glucose or lipid panels. Your provider's office will inform you when scheduling. You can usually take medications with water.
What if I need to discuss multiple health issues?
Prioritize your top 3-4 concerns for the visit. Complex issues may require separate appointments. Let staff know when scheduling if you need extended time.
Can I decline certain parts of the exam?
Yes, you can decline any examination or test. However, discuss with your provider as these recommendations are based on evidence-based guidelines for your health benefit.