Get the most out of your annual visits

Taking advantage of these Allina Health I Aetna Medicare Advantage benefits can help you plan ahead for a healthier, happier year.

An elder black man talks to a black doctor

Did you know you’re eligible for a one-time “Welcome to Medicare” visit within your first 12 months of having Medicare Part B? This visit is to establish a relationship with a primary care physician (PCP) and a baseline for your health. You pay nothing for this visit. Be sure you tell the doctor’s office you are making your “Welcome to Medicare” appointment when you set up your visit.

Another important tool for staying on top of your health: the Annual Wellness Visit. This yearly visit is covered annually, starting 12 months after your “Welcome to Medicare” appointment. Here’s how to make the most of these covered appointments.

Know what to expect
Think of the “Welcome to Medicare” visit and Annual Wellness Visits as check-ins, not physical exams. You will get weighed and have your blood pressure measured. But mostly, you and your PCP will talk about developing a personalized preventative plan.

Make a list of topics to discuss
Write down any questions or concerns you have about your health before you go. We all forget things in the moment — having a list can help keep you on track.

Need a nurse?

Call our 24/7 Nurse Line at
1-855-493-7019 (TTY: 711) to speak with a registered nurse, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If it’s an emergency, dial 911.

Need a nurse?

Bring a caregiver or friend
Before your appointment, check if a companion can join you. Having someone come along can help calm your nerves. And your loved one might ask questions or pick up information that you’ve missed.

Find out about vaccines
Check to see whether you’re up to date on shots or boosters such as flu, pneumonia, TDAP or shingles.

Talk about health screenings
Ask your provider if you are due for any screenings, such as a colonoscopy, mammogram or hearing or vision exam. If possible, book the appointments before you leave the doctor’s office to get them on your calendar.

Review your medications
Go over any medications that you are taking on a regular basis with your PCP. They can help make sure you’re taking what you need — and not what you don’t.

Question of the month: What is a Healthy Home Visit, and why should I schedule one?

Answer: A Healthy Home Visit is an extra layer of care. And there’s no extra cost for you as an Allina Health I Aetna Medicare Advantage member.

During this visit, you stay at home and a licensed health care professional comes to you. Or you can schedule this as a virtual visit. The health care professional can:

• Check your blood pressure and medications

• Answer questions about your prescriptions and health care

• Look for fall risks

• Share advice for more health resources and medical screenings, and more

Ready to book your Healthy Home Visit? Reach out directly to your Member Services team. You can call them between 8 AM and 8 PM, seven days a week at the number on your member ID card:
1-833-570-6671 (TTY: 711)

Get medical advice anytime you need it.

Call our 24/7 Nurse Line at 1-855-493-7019 (TTY: 711) to speak with a registered nurse, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If it’s an emergency, dial 911.

See Evidence of Coverage for a complete description of plan benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features and availability may vary by service area.