From the Guidelines
Medicare eligibility typically begins at age 65. At this age, eligible individuals can enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B, which cover hospital and medical services, respectively [ 1 ].
Wellness Visit Purpose
The wellness benefits under Medicare include a one-time "Welcome to Medicare" preventive visit within the first 12 months of enrollment, and an annual wellness visit thereafter [ 1 ]. These visits are designed to help prevent, detect, and manage health problems, and may include services such as:
- Review of medical and family history
- Measurement of height, weight, and blood pressure
- Calculation of body mass index (BMI)
- Review of current medications and supplements
- Screening for depression, cognitive impairment, and other health issues
- Discussion of advance care planning and other health topics
Additionally, Medicare covers various preventive services, including vaccinations, screenings for cancer and other diseases, and counseling on healthy behaviors [ 1 ]. It's essential to review and understand the specific benefits and services covered under Medicare to maximize wellness and preventive care. The Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) provides an opportunity for primary care physicians to discuss brain health with their patients, including cognitive evaluation [ 1 ].
From the Research
Eligibility for Medicare
- One becomes eligible for Medicare (Medical Insurance) at the age of 65, as stated in the studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Medicare coverage at age 65 improves access to and use of care and alleviates financial hardship for the general population 2.
Purpose of the Wellness Visit
- The purpose of the wellness visit is not explicitly stated in the provided studies, but it can be inferred that it is related to the use of high-value care services, such as cholesterol measurement and receipt of the influenza vaccine, which are increased after Medicare eligibility and enrollment 6.
- Medicare eligibility and enrollment lead to statistically significant increases in the use of some high-value care services, but there are no changes in the use of the majority of other services 6.
Effects of Medicare Eligibility and Enrollment
- Medicare eligibility and enrollment at age 65 lead to significant increases in Medicare coverage among immigrants and US-born residents 5.
- Medicare enrollment at age 65 decreases total healthcare spending and out-of-pocket spending for both immigrants and US-born residents 5.
- After Medicare enrollment at age 65, immigrants report limited improvements in overall access to and use of health care, but they report significant increases in the use of high-value care and improvements in self-reported health 5.