Your annual well visit (also referred to as an annual physical, checkup, or exam) is covered at 100% by your health insurance provider. Seeing your doctor each year is a crucial piece of an effective preventive care routine.
Choose Your Primary Care Provider
It is important to choose a doctor you trust who is in your plan's network. Being in-network refers to providers or health care facilities that are part of a health plan's network with which it has negotiated discounted rates on their services. Seeing the same doctor regularly ensures your care will be consistent. A primary care provider could be a Family Practice or General Practice Doctor, Geriatrician, Internist, Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant, Gynecologist, or Pediatrician.
Preparing For Your Visit: What to Bring
- Your Insurance ID Card
- A list of any medications you are taking
- Concerns you have about your current and future health
- Questions regarding your symptoms, treatments, or medication side effects
- Your family health history
What to Expect
Your well visit will likely start with a questionnaire assessing your health risk. You will answer questions about your current health, family history, past illnesses and surgeries, chronic conditions, lifestyle habits, etc. Your doctor will then listen to your heart and lungs, check your eyes, ears, throat, skin, and abdomen. In addition, your doctor may conduct covered screenings specific to your age and gender such as a cholesterol test, colon cancer screening, pap test or breast exam.
If you are wondering "Will my preventive visit result in a surprise bill in the mail that I cannot afford?", consider this quick read >> on the difference between preventive services and diagnostic services.
Concluding Your Well Visit
Based on your questionnaire answers and exam findings, your doctor may recommend changes to your diet or exercise routine or possibly prescribe medications. If concerns arise during your exam, your doctor may order laboratory services or diagnostic services that may not be covered under your insurance plan.At the conclusion of your annual well visit, be sure to ask your doctor any questions you may have about your exam findings, prescribed treatment or medication, or what steps you need to take to schedule any recommended diagnostic or laboratory services.