The AWV is a Medicare benefit that many families don't take full advantage of because they assume it's just a physical. It isn't. With a little preparation, it can be the most useful appointment on your parent's calendar.
What the AWV is
The Annual Wellness Visit is a covered Medicare benefit designed as a planning and prevention visit — not a head-to-toe physical. It typically includes a health risk assessment, a review of medical and family history, a medication list review, cognitive screening, fall-risk screening, and a personalized prevention plan for the year ahead.
What to bring
Show up with a current medication list (every prescription, over-the-counter, and supplement), a list of all current providers and specialists, recent hospitalizations or ER visits, family history if not already on file, and a short written list of the concerns you and your parent want addressed. If your parent uses a hearing aid or glasses, bring them — cognitive screening performance drops when sensory input is compromised.
Questions worth asking
Generic questions get generic answers. Better: "Are there any screenings I'm overdue for this year?" "Given my history, what vaccines should I have before winter?" "Is there anything on my medication list I could safely stop?" "What would you want me to call about, rather than wait on?" "Should we talk about advance directives while I'm feeling well?"
What happens after
You should leave with a written prevention plan — screenings due this year, vaccines, referrals, and follow-ups. Get a copy before you leave the office. Many of the items on that plan need action (booking, prior auth, scheduling with specialists). They don't happen on their own.
How VisitRecall fits in
Record the visit so you have the prevention plan at home. Scan any paperwork into document scanner. Put each follow-up into Up Next so nothing slips. The caregiver hub has the rest.
FAQ
Is the AWV the same as a physical?
No. It's a prevention and planning visit. A traditional physical may or may not be covered without a copay — ask the office in advance.
Is it really free?
Under Medicare Part B, the AWV is generally covered without a copay when billed correctly. If your parent raises other issues during the visit, those may generate charges.
Can I join by phone?
Many practices allow a family member on speakerphone with the patient's permission. Ask the office ahead of time.
When can we get the next one?
AWVs are covered roughly once every 12 months. Mark the calendar.
