An annual wellness visit is a planned appointment focused on your overall health, preventive care, and future healthcare needs. At Associates in Medicine & Surgery, an annual wellness visit may provide an opportunity to review your health history, discuss preventive services, and create a personalized plan for staying well.

This visit is different from an appointment for a new illness or a specific medical concern. If you have symptoms or an ongoing condition that needs attention, tell the healthcare team when scheduling your visit. You may need a separate evaluation, or your concerns may be addressed as part of the appointment depending on their nature, urgency, and your insurance coverage.

What does an annual wellness visit address?

The purpose of a wellness visit is to look at your health more broadly rather than focusing only on one symptom. The discussion may include:

• Your personal and family health history

• Current medications, supplements, and allergies

• Health habits such as nutrition, physical activity, sleep, tobacco use, and alcohol use

• Preventive screenings and immunizations that may be appropriate for you

• Mental and emotional well-being

• Safety concerns, including fall risk or other issues that may affect daily activities

• Ongoing medical conditions and recommended follow-up

The specific topics covered can vary based on your age, health history, risk factors, current concerns, and the type of wellness visit you are receiving. Your clinician can explain which services are appropriate for you.

When should I schedule a wellness visit?

Many people schedule a wellness visit once a year to keep preventive care up to date. You might also consider making an appointment after a change in your health, a change in medications, or a transition in your healthcare needs. A wellness visit can be especially helpful if you are unsure which screenings or immunizations may be due.

Do not wait for a routine wellness visit if you have severe, sudden, or worsening symptoms. Seek appropriate medical care promptly for urgent concerns. For non-urgent issues, contact the practice so the team can help determine what type of appointment is most suitable.

What may happen during the visit?

An annual wellness visit commonly begins with a review of your health information and preventive care needs. You may be asked about your daily activities, health goals, medications, and any barriers that make it difficult to care for yourself. The clinician may discuss recommended screenings, vaccines, lifestyle changes, or referrals when appropriate.

A physical examination is not necessarily the central part of every wellness visit. Whether an examination, testing, or additional services are appropriate depends on your concerns and clinical needs. If you have a specific symptom or condition, let the team know when scheduling so enough time and the appropriate appointment type can be considered.

How can I prepare?

• Bring an up-to-date list of medications, vitamins, and supplements.

• Be prepared to share information about your medical and family history.

• Write down questions, symptoms, or health goals you want to discuss.

• Bring vaccine or screening records if they are available.

• Check with your insurance plan about wellness visit coverage and possible costs.

Planning your preventive care

A wellness visit is a chance to have an open conversation about maintaining your health and planning for future care. Recommendations should be based on your individual situation, and not every screening or service is right for every person. The team at Associates in Medicine & Surgery can help you understand the purpose of recommended services and discuss questions you may have. Contact the practice to schedule an annual wellness visit or to determine which appointment best fits your needs.