If you're a Medicare patient in Sun City, your Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) is one of the most valuable—and underused—benefits available to you. This preventive visit is fully covered by Medicare with no out-of-pocket cost, yet many seniors don't know it exists or what it includes.
At Pinnacle Health, Dr. Annie Khurana helps Medicare patients understand and make the most of their annual wellness exams. Here's a step-by-step guide to what you can expect during your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit in Sun City.
What Is an Annual Wellness Visit (and What It Isn't)
The Medicare Annual Wellness Visit is a yearly appointment focused on prevention and planning—not treating current illnesses. It's different from a regular checkup or physical exam.
What the AWV Includes:
- Review of your medical and family health history
- Assessment of current health status and risk factors
- Update of your medications and preventive screenings
- Cognitive assessment for memory concerns
- Personalized prevention plan for the coming year
- Depression screening and safety evaluation
What It Doesn't Include:
- Treatment of new or existing medical conditions
- Full physical examination
- Lab work or diagnostic testing (these may be ordered separately)
Note: If you need to discuss a specific health concern during the visit, let us know—we may schedule additional time or a follow-up appointment to address it properly.
What to Bring to Your Annual Wellness Visit
Come prepared with the following items to help make your visit as thorough as possible:
Required Documents:
- Photo ID (driver's license or state ID)
- Medicare card (original or copy)
- Any supplemental insurance cards
Health Information:
- Current medication list including dosages, frequencies, and prescribing doctors
- Any over-the-counter supplements or vitamins you take
- Vaccination records (if available)—especially for flu, pneumonia, and shingles
- Recent lab results or test records from other providers
Questions & Concerns:
- A written list of questions or health concerns you want to discuss
- Notes about any changes in your health since your last visit
- Information about your family medical history if this is your first AWV
Tip: If a caregiver or family member helps with your medical care, consider bringing them along. They can help recall important details and remember the personalized prevention plan.
Step-by-Step: What Happens During Your Visit
Here's what you can expect from start to finish during your Medicare wellness exam at Pinnacle Health in Sun City:
Step 1: Check-In and Vitals (5–10 minutes)
When you arrive, our staff will:
- Verify your ID and Medicare information
- Take your vital signs (blood pressure, weight, height)
- Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI)
- Collect any updated paperwork or medication lists
Step 2: Health Risk Assessment (10–15 minutes)
Dr. Khurana will review a comprehensive health questionnaire with you, covering:
- Your personal and family medical history
- Current health conditions and how they're managed
- Safety concerns (fall risk, home hazards)
- Mental health screening (depression, anxiety)
- Cognitive function assessment (memory, thinking)
- Functional ability (daily activities, mobility)
Step 3: Medication Review (5–10 minutes)
We'll go through every medication you take—prescription and over-the-counter—to:
- Check for drug interactions or duplications
- Identify medications that may increase fall risk
- Ensure dosages are appropriate for your age and kidney function
- Simplify your medication regimen where possible
Step 4: Preventive Screening Review (5–10 minutes)
Based on your age, gender, and risk factors, we'll review whether you're due for:
- Cancer screenings (colonoscopy, mammogram, prostate exam)
- Bone density scan for osteoporosis
- Diabetes screening (A1C or fasting glucose)
- Cholesterol and heart health tests
- Vaccinations (flu, pneumonia, shingles, COVID-19 boosters)
Step 5: Personalized Prevention Plan (5 minutes)
At the end of your visit, you'll receive a written Personalized Prevention Plan that outlines:
- Recommended screenings and when to schedule them
- Vaccinations you need
- Health goals for the next year
- Referrals to specialists if needed
- Lifestyle recommendations (nutrition, exercise, safety)
Common Preventive Screenings for Seniors
Depending on your health profile, your primary care doctor in Sun City may recommend some or all of these screenings as part of your preventive care:
| Screening | Who Needs It | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Colonoscopy | Adults 45–75 | Every 10 years (or more often if at risk) |
| Mammogram | Women 50–74 | Every 1–2 years |
| Bone Density (DEXA) | Women 65+, men with risk factors | Every 2 years |
| Diabetes Screening | Adults with risk factors | Annually |
| Cholesterol Panel | All adults | Every 4–6 years (or annually if elevated) |
| Flu Vaccine | Everyone 6 months+ | Annually |
| Shingles Vaccine | Adults 50+ | Two doses, once |
How Often Should You Schedule Follow-Ups?
Your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit is just the starting point. Based on your health needs, you should plan for:
- Annual Wellness Visit: Once per year (covered 12 months after your last AWV)
- Chronic condition follow-ups: Every 3–6 months for diabetes, hypertension, heart disease
- Medication check-ins: Whenever you start a new medication or experience side effects
- Acute visits: Whenever you're sick or have a new health concern
At Pinnacle Health, we offer same-day and next-day appointments so you can always get the care you need when you need it.
How to Prepare for Your Annual Wellness Visit
A little preparation goes a long way. Here's a quick preventive visit checklist for seniors:
One Week Before:
- Gather your medication bottles or create a written list
- Write down any health questions or concerns
- Request medical records from other providers if applicable
- Confirm your appointment time
Day Before:
- Review your questions list
- Set out your ID, Medicare card, and insurance cards
- Arrange transportation if needed
- Let caregivers know the appointment time
Day Of:
- Wear comfortable, easy-to-remove clothing
- Arrive 10–15 minutes early to complete paperwork
- Bring a family member or caregiver if helpful
- Be ready to discuss your health openly and honestly
Ready for Your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit?
At Pinnacle Health in Sun City, Dr. Annie Khurana and our team are here to help you get the most out of your Medicare benefits. Your Annual Wellness Visit is an important step in staying healthy, catching problems early, and planning for a vibrant year ahead.
Call (623) 295-2952 or request an appointment online to schedule your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit today.
We accept Medicare and most insurance plans, and same-day appointments are often available.