As a result of the new Affordable Care Act, Medicare will now cover a yearly wellness visit free of charge in 2011 for all Medicare Part B participants. Annual wellness visits allow patients to develop and update a personalized healthcare prevention plan with their doctor, while helping avoid illness and improve overall health.
An annual wellness visit is the first step in a person’s preventative care and will often include:
- A review of medical and social history including risk factors that may need change
- Measurement of height, weight, blood pressure, visual acuity screen, and body mass index
- Education, counseling, and referrals based on the results of the visit
- A brief written plan, such as a checklist, for getting appropriate screening and/or other Medicare Part B preventive services
- A review of potential risk factors for depression
“Scheduling an annual wellness visit with your primary care physician is essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The results of your wellness visit will act as a roadmap for your future health plan and allow you to develop and maintain a relationship with your physician,” said Keith Underwood, practice manager with Parkridge Medical Group. “It is important to take charge of your health, and your annual wellness visit will allow you to take that first step towards optimum wellness.”
Take advantage of this new Medicare benefit today. To request an appointment for an annual wellness visit, call MedLine at (800) 242-5662. Same-day appointments are available with many of the Parkridge Medical Group physicians.
Parkridge Medical Group, part of the Parkridge Health System, is a network of experienced multi-specialty physicians located throughout the Chattanooga and Northwest Georgia area. Parkridge Medical Group represents 25 physicians in seven locations that provide quality, convenient healthcare throughout the community.