What’s Included in a Medicare Annual Wellness Exam

• A Health Risk Assessment (health status, behaviors, daily activities, safety)
• Review of your medical and family history
• Updated list of your current providers, suppliers and prescriptions (including an opioid review)
• Height, weight, blood pressure and BMI
• Detection of any cognitive impairment
• Review of depression risk and functional ability and safety (such as fall risk)
• A written screening schedule for the next 5–10 years
• Optional advance care planning and a social-needs risk assessment

Screenings on your schedule, such as colonoscopy, mammogram and eye exams for people with diabetes, are ordered separately and may have their own coverage rules.

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)

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.