Operated by HealthBenefitsCompass LLC, a subsidiary of HealthcareGPS Inc.Medicare education · Not a government websiteReviewed by Lauri Middleton, RN, MSN (licensed Medicare agent) and Karen OrillaHow we prepare our guidance →Meet our reviewers →

Reviewed for accuracy by Lauri Middleton, RN, MSN, licensed Medicare agentReviewed for clarity by Karen OrillaReviewed September 10, 2026Meet our reviewers →

First-Time Medicare · Preparation you can take with you

Prepare for an appointment

A visit checklist and a question to ask before you go.

Choose another task

Start with this

Confirm the type of visit before you go. A Medicare yearly wellness visit helps create or update a prevention plan; it is not a routine physical, and added services can lead to charges.

Keep these nearby

Appointment details, your coverage card, and your current medication list. Keep these with you; do not enter them here.

Your next three steps

Tick a step when you have completed it. These ticks stay only on this page.

Ask the office what type of visit is scheduled. An annual wellness visit is different from a routine physical.
Ask whether the clinician and exact location accept your coverage, and whether a referral or prior authorization is needed.
Ask about possible charges for added services. Write down who answered and when.

Words you can use

Start the conversation

“What is included in this visit, and could any additional services lead to charges?”

Check the official guidance

Medicare.gov: yearly wellness visits ↗

Source checked September 9, 2026. Educational preparation; the responsible agency or plan must confirm your situation.

Notes for your conversation

Who I spoke with: ____________________ Date: ______________

Answer / next step: ___________________________________________

Follow-up date: ______________________________________________