Medically reviewed by Dr. Rajan Kohli, MD, board-certified Family Medicine physician — Lakewood Primary Care and Wellness, Dallas.
It is one of the most common and most confusing questions we hear from patients approaching 65: does Medicare cover an annual physical? The short answer surprises a lot of people. Original Medicare does not cover a traditional head-to-toe annual physical exam. What it does cover is a yearly Annual Wellness Visit — and understanding the difference can save you an unexpected bill and help you get the most out of your Medicare benefits.
This article is educational and not a substitute for personalized medical or insurance advice. Coverage can vary by plan; confirm specifics with Medicare or your plan.
The Short Answer: Wellness Visit, Not a Physical
Medicare Part B covers preventive visits, but not the routine annual physical many people had through their working years. Instead, Medicare covers three related preventive benefits:
- The “Welcome to Medicare” visit — a one-time preventive visit available during your first 12 months on Part B.
- The Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) — available every 12 months after that.
- Routine preventive screenings — many are covered separately.
None of these is the same as a comprehensive physical exam, and knowing that up front is the key to avoiding surprise charges.
Annual Wellness Visit vs. Annual Physical: What’s the Difference?
A traditional annual physical typically includes a hands-on, head-to-toe exam — listening to your heart and lungs, checking reflexes, an abdominal exam, and often routine bloodwork. Medicare generally does not pay for this as a standalone preventive service, so if your visit is billed as a full physical, you may owe out of pocket.
A Medicare Annual Wellness Visit is different by design. It is a prevention-and-planning visit focused on your overall health picture rather than a physical exam. A typical AWV includes reviewing your health history and medications, recording vital signs like height, weight, and blood pressure, a screening for cognitive changes, a review of your risk factors, and building or updating a personalized prevention plan and screening schedule. When provided by a participating provider, the AWV is covered with no copay or deductible.
Think of it this way: a physical checks your body today; the Annual Wellness Visit builds the roadmap for keeping you healthy going forward.
What Preventive Care Does Medicare Cover?
Beyond the wellness visit, Medicare covers many specific preventive services, often at no cost when you use a participating provider. These commonly include cardiovascular screenings, diabetes screening, certain cancer screenings, a bone density test when indicated, vaccines such as flu and pneumonia, and depression screening. The exact list and frequency depend on your eligibility and risk factors — which is precisely what your provider helps you sort out during a wellness visit.
Can I Still Get a Full Physical?
Yes. Many patients choose to have a more thorough exam and address specific concerns during the same appointment. If your physician evaluates a symptom or manages a condition during your visit, that portion may be billed to Medicare as a separate service and normal cost-sharing may apply. A good primary care office will explain what is covered and what may carry a cost before you are surprised by a bill.
New to Medicare in Dallas? We Can Help
Lakewood Primary Care and Wellness is accepting new Medicare patients in Dallas. Led by Dr. Rajan Kohli, MD — a board-certified Family Medicine physician on staff at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas — our practice helps you understand exactly what Medicare covers, complete your Annual Wellness Visit, and build a prevention plan around your health. Because we are located right on the Presbyterian campus, labs, imaging, and specialists are all in the same building.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare cover a yearly physical exam?
Not a traditional physical. Medicare covers a yearly Annual Wellness Visit and a one-time Welcome to Medicare visit, which focus on prevention and planning rather than a head-to-toe exam.
Is the Medicare Annual Wellness Visit free?
When provided by a participating provider, the Annual Wellness Visit is typically covered with no copay or deductible. Additional services addressed during the visit may be billed separately.
What should I bring to my Annual Wellness Visit?
A list of your current medications, your medical and family history, and the specialists you see. Our team guides you through the rest.
How often can I have an Annual Wellness Visit?
Once every 12 months after your first year on Medicare Part B.
Are you accepting new Medicare patients in Dallas?
Yes. Lakewood Primary Care and Wellness welcomes new Medicare patients. Call 214-810-4331 to schedule.
Schedule Your Medicare Wellness Visit in Dallas
Don’t leave your benefits on the table. Request an appointment with Lakewood Primary Care and Wellness, or call 214-810-4331, and we’ll help you make the most of your Medicare coverage.
