Short answer
It’s a one-time Initial Preventive Physical Exam available within your first 12 months of Part B. After that, you get yearly Annual Wellness Visits.
Annual Wellness Exam vs. Annual Physical
| Medicare Annual Wellness Visit | Annual physical (private insurance) | |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Prevention plan, risk review, screening schedule | Physical exam plus preventive screenings |
| Hands-on physical exam | No (only basic measurements) | Yes, usually head to toe |
| Cost | $0 with assignment | Usually $0 in-network |
| Covered by Original Medicare? | Yes, once every 12 months | No, routine physicals aren’t covered |
Important
If you have Original Medicare and ask for a “physical,” you may be billed. Ask for your Annual Wellness Visit by name when you book.
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.