What is the “Welcome to Medicare” Visit and How Does it Differ from a Wellness Visit?
When you first enroll in Medicare Part B, you’re eligible for a one-time “Welcome to Medicare” visit, a valuable, no-cost benefit designed to get you started on the right foot with your health care. But what exactly happens during this visit, and how is it different from the Medicare Annual Wellness Visit? Let’s break it down.
What Is the Welcome to Medicare Visit?
The Welcome to Medicare Visit is a one-time preventive appointment you can schedule within the first 12 months of enrolling in Medicare Part B. It’s not a head-to-toe physical exam, but it’s much more than a quick check-in. Understanding the purpose and timing of each visit can help you make the most of your Medicare benefits from the very beginning.
What’s Included in the Welcome to Medicare Visit:
💜 A comprehensive review of your medical and social history to understand your overall health background.
💜 Education on preventive services, including important screenings and vaccines such as flu, pneumococcal, and other recommended immunizations.
💜 An assessment of your risk factors for substance use, including tobacco and alcohol use, with referrals for support or treatment if needed.
💜 Referrals to specialists or additional care based on your current health needs.
💜 A calculation of your Body Mass Index (BMI) to help assess your weight-related health risks.
💜 A basic vision screening to check for any obvious issues with eyesight.
💜 A review of your mental health, including potential risk factors for depression.
💜 An optional conversation about advance directives, legal documents that state your preferences for medical care if you're ever unable to make those decisions yourself.
💜A personalized written plan or checklist outlining the preventive services (like screenings and vaccines) you may need.
💡 Cost: It’s completely free — there’s no deductible or copay as long as your provider accepts Medicare.
Why It Matters
This Welcome to Medicare visit is a great way to:
🩺 Establish a baseline for your health
🩺 Detect early signs of health issues
🩺 Get personalized guidance for staying healthy as you age
It’s also your opportunity to build a relationship with a primary care provider who understands Medicare and can support you throughout your coverage.
How Is It Different From a Medicare Wellness Visit?
This is one of the most common questions beneficiaries ask and for good reason. These visits sound similar but serve different purposes.
The Welcome to Medicare Visit is:
A one-time visit you get when you first enroll in Medicare Part B
Focused on initial health screenings and planning
The Medicare Annual Wellness Visit is:
An annual visit you can schedule every year after your first 12 months
Focused on creating or updating a personalized prevention plan
Doesn’t include physical exams or screenings like the Welcome visit does
How to Schedule and Prepare for Youur Visit
You’ll need to schedule your Welcome to Medicare Visit within the first 12 months of enrolling in Part B. Just call a doctor who accepts Medicare and ask to book a “Welcome to Medicare preventive visit.” 👉 Tip: Mention the name of the visit exactly - not all offices will bring it up unless you do!
You’ll want to bring along your medical records and immunization records, family health history information, and a list of medications, including prescription and over-the-counter medications and any vitamins/supplements that you currently take plus often you take them and why.
Summary
Starting Medicare can be overwhelming, but the Welcome to Medicare Visit is a smart and simple way to ease into it. It sets the tone for proactive, preventive care and it’s absolutely FREE!
Starting Medicare doesn’t have to be stressful. If you’re unsure where to begin or want help making the most of your Medicare benefits, contact Care Compass today!
Care Compass is an independent insurance agency that helps seniors navigate the complexities of Medicare and other Senior Products. Our goal is to empower Medicare-eligible individuals to make educated and informed decisions about their healthcare. Our services are offered at NO COST to you. Care Compass is proudly owned and operated in Duncansville, Pennsylvania and we serve the residents of Blair County and the surrounding region. If you need Medicare assistance near Altoona, PA, contact us today!
