In medical terms, AWV stands for the Annual Wellness Visit, a specific preventive benefit covered by Medicare. This yearly service helps beneficiaries develop a proactive plan for their health, focusing on disease prevention and early risk identification. It is distinct from a traditional physical examination, serving as a structured health planning session for long-term wellness. The AWV is provided by Medicare Part B to encourage beneficiaries to maintain their health as they age.
Defining the Annual Wellness Visit
The Annual Wellness Visit is a yearly appointment with a healthcare provider to create or update a Personalized Prevention Plan (PPP). This service promotes preventative care among older adults. It is not a comprehensive, hands-on physical exam but rather a structured conversation and assessment of health risks.
The goal is to establish a baseline health profile and identify potential health problems before they become severe. By focusing on planning and risk assessment, the AWV aims to guide beneficiaries toward healthier lifestyles and appropriate screenings.
The Preventive Goals of the AWV
The fundamental purpose of the AWV is to shift the focus of healthcare from treating illness to maintaining wellness. This proactive approach centers on identifying and mitigating behavioral and environmental risks that could lead to chronic disease or injury. The visit empowers the patient with knowledge and a personalized strategy for better health.
A primary objective is the creation of the Personalized Prevention Plan (PPP). This plan outlines recommended screenings, immunizations, and lifestyle changes, acting as a roadmap tailored to the individual’s specific health profile and risk factors.
The visit also aims to improve the quality of care by ensuring that all appropriate preventive services are offered and coordinated. By consistently reviewing a patient’s health status, the provider ensures that age-appropriate screenings, such as for various cancers and cardiovascular issues, are not overlooked.
Specific Assessments Performed During the Visit
The Annual Wellness Visit requires the completion of a Health Risk Assessment (HRA). This questionnaire gathers data on the patient’s health status, injury risks, behavioral factors, and psychosocial risks. The HRA is a foundational element used to inform the rest of the visit and the resulting prevention plan.
The provider performs several key assessments during the AWV:
- Routine measurements, including height, weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), and blood pressure, to establish a physical baseline.
- A comprehensive review of the patient’s medical and family history, along with an updated list of current medications, supplements, and healthcare providers.
- A cognitive function assessment, often involving observation or a brief screening for signs of impairment.
- A screening for depression and an evaluation of functional ability, assessing the patient’s level of safety and risk for falling.
- Development of a written screening schedule detailing recommended preventive services for the next five to ten years.
Eligibility and Distinctions from a Physical Exam
To be eligible for an AWV, a beneficiary must be enrolled in Medicare Part B for at least 12 months. They cannot have received an Annual Wellness Visit or the one-time “Welcome to Medicare” Initial Preventive Physical Exam (IPPE) within the preceding 12 months. The AWV is a recurring annual benefit, available every 12 months thereafter.
A significant distinction is the difference between the AWV and a routine annual physical exam. The AWV is fundamentally a planning and risk assessment service that does not include a comprehensive physical examination or laboratory tests. A physical exam, conversely, is a hands-on assessment of the body to look for current health issues, often involving diagnostic procedures.
Medicare generally covers the AWV at 100% of the approved amount, meaning beneficiaries typically pay no copayment or deductible for the planning service itself. However, the cost of a traditional annual physical exam is often not covered by Medicare Part B. Furthermore, any diagnostic services performed during an AWV to treat a current condition may incur a separate cost.