Summer is winding down and it’s time to turn our attention to the fall months ahead. There’s no better time to start planning and taking action to ensure our health and wellbeing are on track for the rest of the year.

For seniors, this means taking a closer look at one’s healthcare plan and considering any changes that might need to be made.

Why Fall is the Time to Act

Each year, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D, and other insurance providers release information about plan changes and updates for the following year.

This information, also known as the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), is sent out to members in September and October. This can be a critical time for seniors as it is the opportunity to review benefits, compare options, and make changes as needed before the annual enrollment period begins on October 15th.

With so much information to digest and decisions to make, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of the right next steps.

The good news is, there are resources and tools available to help you navigate this process and make informed decisions that are best for your individual health needs and budget. One simple but crucial step you can take is scheduling a free Medicare wellness exam.

What is a Medicare Wellness Exam?

A Medicare wellness exam is a yearly visit with your primary care doctor that focuses on your overall health and wellbeing.

It is fully covered under Medicare Part B and is designed to help you assess your current health, identify potential issues before they become serious, and create a personalized prevention plan to help you stay healthy.

The exam typically includes:.

Reviewing your medical and family history
Height, weight, and blood pressure measurements
Reviewing your current medications and supplements
Screenings for depression, cognitive impairment, and fall risk
Customized preventive services such as flu shots, cancer screenings, and other vaccinations

Why You Should Take Advantage of a Free Medicare Wellness Exam

There are several reasons why a free Medicare wellness exam is a valuable resource for seniors:.

It helps you stay on top of your health and wellbeing
It gives you an opportunity to establish a relationship with a primary care physician and discuss any health concerns you may have
It can identify potential health issues early on, before they become more serious and costly to treat
It helps you create a personalized prevention plan to help you stay healthy
It’s a free benefit under Medicare Part B

How to Schedule a Free Medicare Wellness Exam

Scheduling a free Medicare wellness exam is easy. Simply contact your primary care physician’s office and let them know that you’d like to schedule your Medicare wellness visit.

They will take care of the rest, including billing Medicare for the visit.

What Else to Consider Before the Annual Enrollment Period Begins

While scheduling a free Medicare wellness exam is a good first step, it’s important to also take the time to review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) to understand any changes to your current plan and assess whether it still meets your needs and budget for the coming year. Key things to look out for include:.

Premiums, deductibles, and copay amounts
Changes to covered drugs or treatment services
Changes to provider network or prescription drug coverage
Additional benefits, such as hearing, vision, and dental services
Star ratings and quality measures for your plan

If you’re considering making a change to your plan, it’s important to research and compare your options to make an informed decision.

The Medicare Plan Finder tool is a helpful resource for comparing plans based on your specific needs and budget.

Take Action Now for a Healthier Fall and Winter

Don’t wait until the Annual Enrollment Period begins to start thinking about your healthcare needs for the rest of the year. Taking action now can help ensure a smooth transition and a healthier fall and winter season.

Scheduling a free Medicare wellness exam is a great first step, but it’s important to also review your current plan and compare your options to make sure you’re getting the most value for your money. With a little preparation now, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’re covered for your healthcare needs in the months ahead.