1. What is an Annual Wellness Visit (AWV)?
The AWV is a yearly preventive health check-up for Medicare beneficiaries that focuses on assessing overall health, identifying risk factors, and creating a personalized prevention plan.
2. What components are typically included in the AWV?
The AWV typically includes the following components:
- Review of Medical and Family History
- Fall Prevention Assessment focuses on evaluating factors that could increase fall risks, especially in older adults. It includes discussions about balance, medication side effects, and recommendations for reducing fall hazards.
- Evaluating home safety helps identify potential hazards at home that may lead to accidents or injuries. Providers offer suggestions to create a safer living environment.
- Screening for hearing impairment. Early detection of hearing issues allows for timely interventions and improved communication and helps maintain cognitive function.
- Memory Assessment- Identifying cognitive changes early can lead to further evaluation and appropriate support.
- Depression and anxiety Screening helps assess mental well-being and identify signs of depression or mood disorders. Early detection enables the provision of suitable support and treatment.
- Discussion of Advance Directives, which are legal documents outlining healthcare preferences in case a person becomes unable to make medical decisions. This ensures healthcare wishes are respected.