What is the focus of the yearly "wellness" visit covered under Medicare Part B?

The yearly "wellness" visit covered under Medicare Part B primarily focuses on developing a personalized plan for disease prevention. This visit is intended to assess the overall health of the beneficiary and identify risk factors that could lead to future health issues. During the visit, healthcare providers evaluate the patient's medical history, current health status, and lifestyle considerations. Based on this comprehensive assessment, a tailored plan is created to promote wellness and prevent the onset of diseases.

The emphasis is on prevention rather than treatment of existing conditions, making it distinct from other types of visits that may focus more on evaluating chronic conditions or conducting specific diagnostic tests. The objective of the wellness visit is to empower patients with knowledge and strategies that can help maintain their health and prevent illnesses, reflecting the broader goals of Medicare to promote proactive healthcare.