What’s in a name? When it comes to a Medical Wellness Check-up, the answer is plenty. That’s because with a Medical Wellness Check-up, there is another layer of preventive care to your regularly scheduled annual physical. So what is a Medical Wellness Check-up and who is eligible to have one? Here is what you need to know about this very special benefit and why those who are eligible should take advantage of it.
More than a Check-up – a valuable tool
Unlike an annual physical which concentrates primarily on your current health state, a Medical Wellness Check-up is a valuable tool for risk assessment and preventing the development of disease. After undergoing the check-up, your doctor will work with you to develop a wellness plan designed specifically for you; this plan will provide a path on how to address current and prevent future health problems for a happier, healthier life. This is particularly useful if for example hypertension, cancer, or dementia runs in your family.
What You Can Expect during a Medical Wellness Check-up
During a Medical Wellness Check-up, you can expect at a minimum the following tests and screens:
- Checking of Vitals
- Body Mass Index
- Vision and hearing evaluations
- Evaluation of cognitive function
- Assessments of your current health situation
- Health risk assessment
- Preventive screenings and shots
- Evaluation of current prescriptions
Following the exam and depending on your age, gender, and genetic risk factors, your wellness doctor may schedule you for immunizations, screenings and further medical tests.
Preparing for your Medical Wellness Check-up
Preventive care is much more effective by learning your family’s medical health history – be sure to be able to discuss any family health issues, such as cancers, early onset Alzheimer’s, and heart disease. Based on your current status as well as family history, your physician may schedule screening tests to catch and address health issues early on. Remember to ask your scheduler which paperwork, reports or films to bring, and what tests may be conducted – you may be requested to fast or not wear perfumes, powders and deodorants. If you have it, bring a shot record as well as a list of current medications and allergies, prescriptions and medical providers.
Create a Dialogue
A Medical Wellness Check-up is a perfect opportunity to ask as many medical- or health-related questions as you like. Do not hold back from asking your physician about anything of a more sensitive nature. To get the most out of the appointment, write down your questions before the scheduled appointment so you do not forget anything. A wellness doctor has plenty of time to listen to you and answer your questions. Know too that Medical Wellness Check-ups may also benefit children and young adults. Once a child outgrows a pediatrician, he or she may also receive Medical Wellness Check-up.
Wellness Visits in South Carolina
Next time you schedule your annual or school physical, be sure to request a Medical Wellness Check-up to gain a full picture of your health and wellness. The wellness providers at SC Internal Medicine Associates & Rehabilitation gladly provide Medical Wellness Visits. Wellness check-ups are covered under most insurance plans. If you are enrolled in Medicare Part B, you can get free wellness visits every year with no deductibles or co-pays.
While we may diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, our emphasis is on preventive care. We believe in patient education and make sure every appointment is a positive experience. Let SC Internal Medicine Associates & Rehabilitation help you live a healthy lifestyle and plan for a healthy future. Please call (803) 749-1111, or request an appointment online.
