Why Your Annual Wellness Visit Matters More Than You May Think
May 07, 2026 | Tags:
Everything ages – cars, homes, even our smartphones – and each needs regular care to stay in good condition. Our bodies are no different. As we grow older, routine health check-ins become an important way to keep everything functioning smoothly. One of the best ways to support you in maintaining and improving your physical and mental health is through an Annual Wellness Visit with your primary care provider (PCP).
Many Medical Mutual members find that this visit becomes a turning point in their health journey – much like one member who, after feeling overwhelmed by multiple conditions, began gaining clarity simply by taking that first step toward organized care.
What is an Annual Wellness Visit?
One of the many benefits of being a Medicare member is an Annual Wellness Visit—a preventive visit designed to help assess your overall health and well‑being. It’s specifically designed to assess your overall health and wellbeing. An Annual Wellness Visit is an opportunity for your PCP to:
- Review your overall health
- Complete health screenings for health concerns like depression or memory loss
- Discuss preventive recommendations for your age, like immunizations
An Annual Wellness Visit also helps your PCP understand your social needs and refer you to appropriate services and resources when needed. This support helps those juggling complex conditions feel more confident navigating their care.
What should you discuss during your Annual Wellness Visit?
Your Annual Wellness Visit is a great opportunity to talk with your PCP about changes in your physical, emotional or cognitive health over the past year. Be sure to mention anything new or concerning, even if it feels awkward or embarrassing. Even small shifts can be important. Remember, your PCP wants to understand what you’re experiencing, and sharing details helps them support you in ways that genuinely improve your day‑to‑day life.
One member, for example, discovered that sharing these details helped her Care Navigator and providers coordinate the right specialists, easing the stress she once felt managing everything alone.
Consider discussing the following:
- Changes in your sleep, appetite, mood, memory, activity levels or pain
- Bladder control concerns
- Balance issues or any recent falls
Don’t be afraid to speak openly. Your PCP talks about these topics every day and discussing them can help you find relief. You should also ask which preventive screenings you may need and how often, such as:
- Colonoscopy, mammogram, bone density test or prostate screenings
- Diabetes testing
- Blood pressure, cholesterol and other routine lab checks
Eligibility for screenings depends on your age, risk factors and overall health. Your PCP can help create a personalized plan to support your long‑term well‑being. For a list of topics to discuss with your PCP during your visit, Medical Mutual offers a provider checklist with common questions that cover both physical and emotional health.
Schedule your Annual Wellness Visit today
With the same mindset we bring to caring for the things that support us over time, being proactive with your health can help you plan for other preventive care you may need. Medical Mutual is here to support you in maintaining and improving your overall health.
Your Medicare Advantage plan covers one Annual Wellness Visit within the calendar year. Members can receive preventive screenings and vaccinations at no cost.
To find a PCP near you, use our provider search tool at MedMutual.com/FindAProvider or call the Customer Care phone number listed on your member ID card.