Annual Wellness Visits
At ROADL, we specialize in providing comprehensive Annual Wellness Visits (AWVs) for Medicare patients. These visits focus on preventive care, helping patients maintain their health while allowing healthcare providers to close important documentation gaps.
What Is an Annual Wellness Visit (AWV)?
An Annual Wellness Visit is a yearly appointment designed for Medicare patients to create a personalized prevention plan. Unlike a routine physical, AWVs focus on preventive health by identifying risks and developing strategies to maintain overall well-being.
Key Components of an AWV
Initial Preventive Physical Examination (IPPE)
- Also known as the “Welcome to Medicare” visit.
- For patients who are new to Medicare within the first 12 months of enrollment.
- Includes a comprehensive review of medical and social history and preventive health measures.
Subsequent Annual Wellness Visits
Health Risk Assessment (HRA)
- A structured questionnaire that gathers key health information:
- Medical history.
- Lifestyle habits (diet, exercise, tobacco/alcohol use).
- Social determinants of health, such as living situation and support systems.
- Risk factors for depression or cognitive decline.
Personalized Prevention Plan
- A customized strategy tailored to the patient’s health needs, including:
- Screening schedules (e.g., mammograms, colonoscopies).
- Immunization plans (e.g., flu, shingles, pneumonia vaccines).
- Chronic disease management strategies.
Vital Signs and Metrics
- Regular monitoring of key health indicators, including:
- Height, weight, and body mass index (BMI).
- Blood pressure and other vital signs.
Key Assessments During AWVs
Medical and Family History
Review and update personal and family health histories to assess risks for conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
Cognitive Screening
Early detection of memory loss or cognitive impairment using standardized tools like Mini-Cog or MMSE.
Functional and Safety Evaluations
Assess fall risk, ability to perform daily activities, and home safety.
Depression Screening
Screen for mental health concerns using validated tools like PHQ-2 or PHQ-9.
Additional Areas of Focus
Advance Care Planning (ACP)
- Discuss and document preferences for end-of-life care.
- Update advance directives or POLST forms if applicable.
Lifestyle Counseling
- Provide actionable recommendations for:
- Nutritional guidance.
- Physical activity plans.
Preventive Screenings
- Ensure the patient is up to date on Medicare-covered screenings, such as colorectal cancer and osteoporosis.
Why Choose ROADL for AWVs?
Convenience:
Streamlined scheduling and efficient documentation processes.
Comprehensive Care:
Focused on preventive health and addressing individual patient needs.
Quality Assurance:
Ensure compliance with Medicare guidelines while improving patient outcomes.
Schedule Your Annual Wellness Visit Today
ROADL makes it easy to prioritize your health. Contact us to schedule your Annual Wellness Visit and take the next step toward better health and well-being.
