Annual checkups aren’t just a box to check—they’re a powerful tool to help people stay healthier as they age, according to Excellus BlueCross BlueShield.
The Rochester-based health plan is reminding residents that preventive care, including annual physicals and wellness visits, plays a critical role in catching health issues early and managing chronic conditions before they become serious.
Why these visits matter
Only about 59% of Medicare members aged 65 and older are completing annual visits, which means many are missing key screenings for things like high blood pressure, cancer, diabetes, and mental health.
“Preventive screenings help people in their 60s and 70s live healthier lives,” said Dr. Kathleen Robischon, VP of medical affairs and clinical services at Excellus. “We know tests can feel intimidating and life gets busy, but taking this step truly improves quality of life.”
Guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force support these visits as essential for detecting risk factors early, keeping patients on track with vaccinations, and managing long-term conditions more effectively.
What’s included in annual visits
Excellus encourages adults to schedule both their annual physical and, if eligible, a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit (AWV). These visits often include:
- Blood pressure checks and cholesterol monitoring
- Screenings for colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and osteoporosis
- Vaccinations for flu, shingles, pneumonia, and COVID-19
- Mental health and cognitive assessments
- Fall risk and medication reviews
The AWV isn’t a traditional physical. Instead, it’s a dedicated time to create a personalized plan with a doctor—one that factors in family history, lifestyle risks, and current medications. It’s also covered 100% by Medicare, meaning there’s no out-of-pocket cost for the visit itself.
Next steps for patients
Excellus urges patients to bring a complete list of their medications and questions to their visit. Providers can help connect them with low-cost prescription programs like EPIC and ensure any follow-up care is coordinated.
To learn more about what’s included in preventive visits and download a checklist for adults over 65, visit: https://medicare.excellusbcbs.com/documents/d/global/exc-inp-adult-over-65-plus-preventive-health-checklist.
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