65 and older? Do you have Medicare?
- Sunshine Staff
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Understanding Medicare Annual Wellness Visits: A Simple Step Toward Better Health
If you're a Medicare beneficiary, there’s a key benefit you might not be using to its full potential—your Annual Wellness Visit (AWV). Unlike a traditional physical, this visit is fully covered by Medicare and focuses on preventive care and long-term health planning. At Sunshine Community Health Center, we believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive—and your Annual Wellness Visit is a perfect place to start.
🩺 What Is a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit?
The Annual Wellness Visit is not a head-to-toe physical exam, but rather a conversation and health planning session between you and your provider. Covered once every 12 months, it gives you and your healthcare team the chance to:
Review your medical and family history
Update your list of current providers and medications
Measure height, weight, blood pressure, and other routine stats
Assess cognitive function and risk factors
Create or update a personalized prevention plan to keep you healthy
Review screenings and immunizations you're eligible for
It’s designed to keep you one step ahead of illness—catching risks before they turn into bigger problems.
👩⚕️ Meet Lyla Micheli, LPN at Sunshine CHC
Lyla Micheli is a Licensed Practical Nurse and a dedicated member of the Sunshine CHC care team. With a strong focus on compassionate, patient-centered care, Lyla helps Medicare patients make the most of their Annual Wellness Visits. She believes in meeting people where they are, working together to set achievable health goals, and creating plans that are as individual as each patient she sees.
Lyla recently joined KTNA’s Su Valley Voice to share more about these visits and why they’re so important—especially for aging adults who want to stay active, independent, and healthy.
👩⚕️ And Say Hello to Sara Heller, LPN
Another essential part of the Sunshine CHC team is Sara Heller, LPN, whose dedication to detail and personalized care makes her a favorite among patients. Sara brings a wealth of nursing knowledge, kindness, and practical experience to every interaction. She works closely with Medicare recipients to ensure that their Annual Wellness Visits are not only thorough but also comfortable and informative. Her proactive approach helps patients understand their care plans, ask the right questions, and feel empowered in their health decisions.
🧠 Meet Sean McPhilamy, Medicare Information Advocate & Community Volunteer
Joining Lyla on KTNA was Sean McPhilamy, a volunteer Medicare Counselor with the State of Alaska’s Medicare Information Office (MIO). Sean offers expert, unbiased help for navigating Medicare benefits—and he's a familiar face (and voice) around the Upper Valley. In addition to volunteering with KTNA, Sean serves as the Board Chair for Sunshine Transit, working to make local transportation more accessible for all.
He brings clarity and calm to the often confusing world of Medicare and is a valuable resource for anyone looking to better understand their coverage options.
📞 Want to reach Sean? Call (907) 310-2951 or email him at Sean.McPhilamy@Alaska.gov.The State’s MIO can also be reached at (800) 478-6065.
💡 Why These Visits Matter
They’re preventive, not reactive. AWVs help you stay ahead of health problems instead of reacting to them after they arise.
They’re covered by Medicare. There's no cost to you—no deductible, no copay.
They build a relationship with your care team. Annual Wellness Visits give your care team a clearer picture of your long-term needs and goals.
They empower you to take control of your health. From diet and exercise to screenings and safety, these visits offer a chance to make informed choices about your care.
🎁 Bonus! Sunshine CHC Is Offering an Incentive for Your Annual Wellness Visit
As a thank-you for prioritizing your health, Sunshine CHC is offering a special incentive when you complete your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit. It’s our way of encouraging wellness and celebrating your commitment to staying healthy.
📞 Ready to schedule? Call 907-733-2273 today.
🎧 And don’t forget to catch the full conversation on Su Valley Voice via KTNA—find the link on our website.
#MedicareWellness #StayHealthyAlaska #SunshineCHC #SuValleyVoice #PreventiveCare #HealthyAging #MatSuValley #KTNA #MedicareMadeSimple
Sunshine Community Health Center
1-907-376-2273 (CARE)
*This article was written with the support of AI*