Annual Wellness Visits | Video

Michelle San Miguel | 10/18/2012

Medicare recipients are eligible for a free annual wellness visit under the Affordable Care Act. Primary Care Physician Dr. Jessica Carlson says these wellness visits are important for seniors, to make sure they`re up to date on their vaccinations and to check for various cancers, including cervical, breast and prostate cancer.

During the exam, doctors also evaluate a patient`s bone density and the risk for osteoporosis.

"A lot of times people come in and they want to talk to their doctor about A, B and C but they never quite remember- well i had something to talk about but I forgot what it was so i really recommend that people you know if they have questions to make a list and bring that into your physician to make sure that we talk about the things that you`re concerned about."

Dr. Carlson says the key is to take preventative steps when it comes to your health, which means exercising regularly and eating healthy.

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