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Annual wellness visits (AWV) are routine examinations performed by your primary care doctor. Like physicals, they involve the measuring of vitals. They then take the exam further by also studying cognition, medical history, and health risks, among other indicators of well-being.  

Although wellness visits are fully covered by Medicare, a recent study by the Harvard Medical School found that less than 20% of eligible adults aged 65 and older utilize this service every year. Some say they don’t have time between standard physicals and specialty appointments. Others just don’t see the point because they don’t have any prominent health issues. But, as many family care physicians will attest, these annual exams are an invaluable asset to the country’s aging population. Namely, they allow you to:

1. Prevent Serious Health Problems

primary care doctorFirst and foremost, AWVs are preventative. Family care physicians use the time to assess your well-being, pinpointing areas of possible concern and treating them before they become too severe. For example, if your doctor notices an upward trend in your blood pressure, they may recommend medication or lifestyle changes that decrease your risk of hypertension and even heart attack. Wellness visits can also prevent or lessen the effects of aging-associated diseases like arthritis, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.

2. Reduce Health Care Costs

AWVs also reduce medical spending. That is, the preventative exam allows you to treat diseases before they become too serious and too expensive. And when you and other seniors spend less on health care, so do more across the country.

3. Preserve Independence

As you age, you might not be able to do some of your favorite hobbies or basic chores without assistance. You might need help threading a needle or going up the stairs. This trend is a natural part of senescence and, in many cases, shouldn’t be a cause for worry. Nonetheless, AWVs – and the preventative care they entail – protect your independence, allowing you to complete these activities unassisted for longer.

4. Build a Relationship With Your Primary Care Doctor

diabetesJust because you’re not currently sick or injured doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from an AWV. In fact, the exam is a wonderful time to chat with your family care physician. During the session, you can get to know them as both a friend and your doctor, thus making it easier to discuss health concerns should they arise in the future. Wellness visits also give your doctor a clearer understanding of your medical and family history so they can better tailor their care to your unique needs.

5. Plan Ahead

Although disease prevention is the focus of AWVs, as mentioned above, sessions may also include an advanced care component. Advanced care planning is a process that involves predetermining the medical care you would want to receive should you become unable to speak for yourself. This documentation not only prevents conflict between loved ones who may disagree on the best course of action but also ensures your primary care doctor understands your wishes and individual preferences.

 

As you age, protecting your health becomes more important than ever. Fortunately, you have Urgent & Primary Care on your side. Based in East Greenbush, NY, this practice offers a wide variety of medical services – from annual wellness visits to diabetes management – designed to help seniors lead healthy, happy lives. For more information, visit their website or call them at (518) 463-8262 today to schedule an appointment with an experienced primary care doctor.

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