Understanding Wellness Visit
It may include discussion of medical and family history, medications, daily functioning, and recommended screenings. The purpose is to identify ways to protect health and coordinate next steps, rather than to perform every possible examination or test.
How it is assessed or used in care
The Medicare Annual Wellness Visit has a specific meaning: it is a prevention-planning visit, not a routine comprehensive physical examination. Measurements and selected assessments may be included. Other insurers and practices may use “wellness visit” differently.
What to discuss with your clinician
When scheduling, ask what your visit includes and whether separate evaluation of a new symptom will affect billing. Bring your medication list and any health-risk questionnaire. Do not wait for a wellness visit to seek care for a new or urgent concern.
Medical references
Sources accessed November 13, 2026.
This information is for general education, not a diagnosis or an individualized treatment plan. Discuss symptoms, test results, and treatment decisions with a qualified clinician. For a medical emergency, call 911.