What is a Medicare Physical?
A Medicare Physical is an introductory and annual comprehensive exam that's fully covered by Medicare. The introductory exam occurs during your first 12 months of Medicare coverage. The annual exam occurs each year thereafter. The overall goal of a Medicare Physical is to assess your health and wellness and plan for any necessary preventive care.
Following your first full year of Medicare, you're entitled to one wellness exam every 12 months. The Medicare Physical focuses on more preventive care aspects as opposed to your standard checkups.
What does a Medicare Physical include?
Dr. Facemyer conducts Medicare Physicals at Austin Square Medical Group. During your Medicare Physical, Dr. Facemyer takes care of the following:
- Medical history review
- Weight and body mass index check
- Blood pressure check
- Vital signs check
- Vision test
- Health risk assessment
- Cognitive screening
- Head and neck exam
- Abdominal exam and colorectal screening
- Lung exam and cancer screening
- Reflex check
- Vaccination updates
- Fall risk
- Do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders and living wills
After completing your physical, Dr. Facemyer develops a preventive care plan that fits your specific health needs. If Dr. Facemyer determines that you need additional tests or screenings, you can plan for those at this time, too.
What additional services and screenings does Medicare cover?
Medicare can cover a wide range of services and screenings after your Medicare Physical, depending on whether Dr. Facemyer recommends them for your particular needs. Additional services and screenings can include:
- Bone density test
- Heart disease screening
- Colorectal cancer screening
- Lung exam and cancer screening
- Breast cancer screening
- Cervical, uterine, and ovarian cancer screening
- Visual exam
- Diabetes management education
- Vaccination updates
- Aortic aneurysm screening
What should I bring to my Medicare Physical?
To make the process as smooth as possible, bring along the following items to your appointment:
- Your old medical records, if you're a new patient
- A detailed history of your immediate family's health
- List of all medications you're taking, including over-the-counter and prescription medicines
Speak to a team member at Austin Square Medical Group at least a few days before your Medicare Physical to learn about any additional preparations you should take.
Book an appointment online or over the phone with Austin Square Medical Group today for your Medicare Physical.
