Many health insurances promote one “free” preventive care or wellness visit benefit per year. But this is only free if the physician does not find additional health issues that warrant a change in your current treatment.
That is, a preventive care visit is only free if you only talk about preventing your current issues from getting worse, and to prevent you from developing more health issues. You cannot present to your doctor with a problem and still expect a free visit.
Below are some examples of what may constitute a preventive care visit:
- Screening tests: cholesterol, depression, diabetes, high blood pressure, pap test, ovarian cancer, prostate screening
- Breastfeeding support, contraceptive methods
- Immunizations
- Well-baby care: physical examinations, sensory screening
- Adult and child obesity screening and counseling
Bottom line: if you come to a preventive care visit with a problem, or if your current health condition has changed, you may be charged for a regular PCP visit.
