Get proactive with your care

Wellness visits 101

Did you know that every person, at every age, should see their primary care provider at least once a year? Some call it an annual physical. Others call it a preventive care visit. Still others call them wellness visits. So, what’s the difference?

Preventive care and wellness visits are really the same thing: an annual exam where your provider takes your weight, blood pressure and blood samples for testing. They screen for certain conditions, based on your gender and age, and they learn more about you and your health goals. These visits are fully covered by your Moda Health plan with no copay.

You can make these visits your own by bringing your questions to the appointment. When you take an active role, you can get more from your visits and improve your overall health.

Go beyond the basics

It may be tempting to skip your wellness visits, especially if you’re healthy and don’t have any major concerns. But seeing your provider when you’re healthy may be the best time to check in. It gives you a chance to measure your baseline levels for blood pressure, weight and bloodwork. If these numbers change in the future, it may be easier to diagnose a problem.

Wellness visits are also a great time to talk to your provider about general health issues. For example, you might ask for advice on getting more sleep or managing stress. If you’re nearing middle age, you might ask about hormonal changes and your options for treatment. Or maybe you want to explore whether your family history puts you at a higher risk for any conditions. Some people may be surprised to learn their providers can even help them problem-solve if they’d like to improve their sexual or mental health.

In short, there are no health-related questions you can’t ask your provider during a wellness visit. It’s a common myth that if you ask about a specific condition during a preventive care visit, you’ll be billed for a regular office visit. Rest assured that you can ask questions without causing extra charges.

A wellness visit changes the dynamic between you and your provider. Instead of simply listening to your provider’s instructions, you can have a two-way conversation and advocate for your goals.

All questions are welcome

Worried that your provider will only tell you the same things you’ve heard before about getting more exercise, eating healthier and stopping unhealthy habits? Here’s a question you can ask to flip the conversation: “Is there anything new for…?”

• Is there anything new for treating cholesterol?
• Are there any new methods for quitting smoking?
• Is there anything new for weight loss?
• Are there any new apps or programs for better nutrition?

Your provider may be able to tell you about a treatment that’s just become available. Or they may suggest another way of trying to lose weight, eat better or stop smoking that you haven’t thought about.

Not quite ready to make a change? It’s okay to ask, “What can I do when I’m ready?” After all, being ready to make a change might come sooner than you think.

Questions about tests and procedures

If your provider recommends a test or procedure during your wellness visits, it’s important to understand why you need it. Here are five follow-up questions you should ask.

1. Do I really need this test or procedure? Your provider should be able to explain why they’re recommending the test or procedure. For example, will the test help your provider decide how to treat a problem?
2. What are the risks? Ask if there could be any side effects. Also, what are the chances of getting results that aren’t accurate? Could that lead to another procedure?
3. Are there simpler, safer options? In some cases, you might be able to treat the problem with more exercise or a healthier diet.
4. What happens if I don’t do anything? Ask if the problem might get worse if you don’t have the procedure or test right away.
5. How much does it cost? Your provider won’t know exactly what your plan covers. But they may have an idea. And you can always call the Moda Health Customer Service team for help checking your benefits. Consider asking if there are less expensive tests or treatments. Don’t forget that generic drugs instead of brand name can save you money, too.

Preparing for your visit

To prepare for a wellness visit, make a list of questions about what you want to improve. Bring this list and any medications or supplements you are taking, in their original bottles. This will eliminate any guesswork for you and your provider.

If your provider identifies any problems during your wellness visit, make sure to ask when you should come back. In some cases, you may need to follow up in a few months instead of waiting until your next annual visit.

Remember that your goal is to work with your provider as a team. For most people, their wellness journey is not a straight line, and your provider can help create a care plan that works for you.

Schedule a visit soon

Many primary care providers need to book patients weeks or months in advance. That means it’s never too early to make an appointment for your next wellness visit. It’s also a good idea to keep a list of questions in a convenient place, like on your phone, so you can add to the list when you think of new questions.

To schedule a wellness visit, call your primary care provider’s office. Don’t have a primary care provider yet? You can find one using the “Find Care” tool in your Member Dashboard.