OLDER AMERICANS MONTH - Age my Way

May is Older Americans Month. This year the focus is on aging in place--giving us an opportunity to explore the many ways older adults can remain in and be active in their communities. One way to do that is by taking control of your health. If you have Medicare Part B and are new to Medicare, you may be eligible for a wellness visit or a Welcome to Medicare visit. These benefits offer a time for you and a medical provider to review your current medications, labs, medical history, family history, and more to help prevent disease based on your current health and risk factors and develop a plan of care, unique to you.

Welcome to Medicare Physical Exam
The "Welcome to Medicare" physical exam is a one-time, preventive physical exam Medicare covers within the first 12 months that you have Medicare Part B. The visit will include a thorough review of your health, along with education and counseling about the preventive services you need, like certain screenings, shots, and referrals for other care. This visit is a great way to get up to date on important screenings and shots and to talk with your doctor about your family history and how to stay healthy. During the "Welcome to Medicare" visit, your doctor will record your medical history and check your vision, blood pressure, weight, and height to measure your body mass index (BMI). Body mass index is a measure of body fat that applies to both adult men and women.

Your doctor will check that you are up to date with preventive screenings and services, such as cancer screenings and immunizations. Further tests may be ordered, if necessary, depending on your general health and medical history. Your doctor will also give you the advice to help you prevent disease, improve your health, and stay well.

Annual Medicare Wellness Visit
If you have Medicare coverage, make sure you are taking full advantage of all that's offered to keep you healthy such as the free annual wellness visit. The annual wellness visit does not replace your routine annual physical with your doctor; it offers a focused assessment performed by a registered nurse that will enhance your visit to your primary care doctor. The Sabetha Community Hospital has a registered nurse, Chris Isch, RN who works closely with the physicians at the Sabetha Family Practice to offer wellness visits in the clinic.

When you go to your scheduled Medicare visit, it is important that you take a detailed list of your current medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, your family history, immunization records, and any other medical records not on file with the SCH system. For more information about these Medicare Benefits, visit the Sabetha Family Practice link at www.sabethahospital.com or call the Sabetha Family Practice at (785) 284-2141.