Medicare Annual Wellness Visit

At Physicians of Southern California, we believe that proactive, preventive care is the foundation of healthy aging. The Medicare Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) is not a routine physical exam; it is a comprehensive, personalized health review designed to keep you well, detect early risks, and coordinate your care across all specialists. This visit is fully covered by Medicare Part B with zero out‑of‑pocket cost when you visit our clinic.

Who Qualifies for the Annual Wellness Visit?

You are eligible for a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit if:

You have been enrolled in Medicare Part B for more than 12 months, and
You have not received an Annual Wellness Visit or a “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit within the last 12 calendar months.

        Important note: If you are a new Medicare beneficiary, you must first complete your one‑time “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit. After that, you become eligible for an AWV once every year. Our team will verify your eligibility before scheduling.
    

What to Expect During Your AWV

Your Annual Wellness Visit at Physicians of Southern California is a thorough, unhurried appointment. Our board‑certified physicians and care team will focus on the following key areas:

Health Risk Assessment

We review your personal and family medical history, current medications, allergies, and lifestyle factors to identify any emerging health risks.

Vital Signs & Basic Measurements

Height, weight, blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), and other routine vitals are measured to track changes year over year.

Cognitive & Functional Screening

We perform simple, evidence‑based screenings to assess memory, mood, balance, and daily living activities. Early detection of dementia, depression, or fall risk allows us to intervene sooner.

Preventive Screenings & Immunizations

We review which cancer screenings (mammogram, colonoscopy), cardiovascular tests, diabetes checks, and vaccinations (flu, pneumococcal, shingles) are due based on your age and risk profile.

Advance Care Planning

We initiate conversations about your future healthcare preferences, including living wills, durable power of attorney, and goals of care. This ensures your wishes are respected.

Personalized Prevention Plan

You receive a written, easy‑to‑follow plan that outlines recommended screenings, lifestyle modifications, and follow‑up appointments. This plan is shared with your specialists to ensure seamless coordination.

Key Benefits of an Annual Wellness Visit

Cost‑free preventive care – There is no charge to you when you use a Medicare‑participating provider like PSC.
Early detection of chronic conditions – Identify hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and cognitive decline before symptoms appear.
Medication review – Reduce the risk of adverse drug interactions and ensure your prescriptions are appropriate.
Care coordination – We connect the dots between your specialists, therapists, and home health providers.
Peace of mind – Knowing your health status and having a clear roadmap for the year reduces anxiety and empowers you.

Why Choose Physicians of Southern California for Your AWV?

As a trusted primary care practice serving the greater Pasadena and Ontario communities, we bring decades of experience in geriatric and internal medicine. Our approach is patient‑centered, culturally sensitive, and deeply committed to the well‑being of Medicare beneficiaries.

Board‑certified physicians with specialized training in preventive and senior care.
Convenient locations in Pasadena and Ontario, with ample parking and accessible facilities.
Multilingual staff to serve the diverse populations of Southern California.
Same‑week appointments available for urgent needs, and AWV scheduling within 3‑5 business days.
Seamless electronic health records that allow instant sharing with your specialists and hospitals.

Frequently Asked Questions About the AWV

Is the Annual Wellness Visit the same as a physical exam?

No. A physical exam typically includes a complete hands‑on examination. The AWV is a preventive, assessment‑focused visit that reviews your health risks, screenings, and creates a personalized plan. It does not include a comprehensive physical exam.

Do I have to pay a copay or deductible?

No. Medicare Part B covers the AWV at 100% when you see a participating provider. You pay nothing as long as the visit is coded correctly as a preventive wellness visit.

How long does the visit take?

Most AWV appointments last between 30 and 45 minutes, allowing ample time for a thorough review and discussion with your physician.

What should I bring to my appointment?

Please bring your Medicare card, a list of all current medications (including over‑the‑counter drugs), any recent test results from other providers, and a list of any questions or concerns you have about your health.

Can I schedule an AWV for a family member?

Yes, you can schedule on behalf of a spouse or parent. We will need their Medicare information and consent to coordinate the visit.