Short answer
A preventive visit focused on screenings, vaccines and risk factors rather than a sick visit. For Medicare, the Annual Wellness Visit is a yearly prevention-plan visit, which is different from a head-to-toe physical.
USA Annual Wellness Exam: Quick Facts
- Medicare coverage
- Part B, once every 12 months
- Cost (Medicare)
- $0 if the provider accepts assignment
- First-year visit
- “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit (within 12 months of Part B)
- Typical length
- 30–60 minutes
- Billing codes
- G0438 (first AWV), G0439 (later AWVs)
- Private insurance
- Preventive visit usually $0 in-network (ACA)
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Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Coverage, prices and requirements change and vary by provider and location. Confirm details with your provider, insurer or the agency listed in the sources. Read our editorial policy.