jerryc41 wrote:
I went to see my doctor yesterday for my annual physical, although they now call it a Wellness Exam. Surprisingly, the waiting time was very short. The nurse asked me a lot of questions and said, "I see you're here for your physical." I didn't correct her and say, "Wellness Exam." The doctor finished with me and said I'm good for another year. Then he said, "I see you're due for your Wellness Exam in April." I laughed out loud! I said, "I thought this was my Wellness Exam." "No, this is your physical. Your Wellness exam will be in April."
We had discussed the confusing terminology before, but it's still confusing. The Wellness Exam is more thorough. The insurance company pays for both, so I have no copayment. He said that he is now able to combine them, so in April of 2025, I will get both on the same day. I tried to picture how that would work.
"Hi, how are you feeling? (Wellness)
"I'm feeling fine."
"Hi, how are you feeling? (physical)
"I'm feeling fine."
"Let me listen to your heart." (Wellness)
"Let me listen to your heart." (physical)
Speaking of "thorough," in the past, my physical would include a hearing test, breathing test, and an echocardiogram (maybe that's not the right term). They've been eliminated.
I went to see my doctor yesterday for my annual ph... (
show quote)
Well, my wellness exam is ordered by my insurance company and is conducted by a NP at my home annually. My physical exam is an annual by the VA, and is conducted at the regional center with a face to face with my Primary Physician that may include additional tests (blood, Xray, etc.). I have six (6) specialists at VA, and two at Lutheran hospital. I take 19 pills/capsules a day, and generally feel pretty good. Between VA and Medicare I'm in good hands. I have had my days of irritation with the medical field but realize everyone has their irritations also. Just thankful for what I have. Terminology can get confusing.