Preventive care: Remember to account for overlap when billing preventive exam with AWV

Why This Topic Matters

Medicare wellness visits often overlap with other preventive or problem-oriented services, and improper handling can affect patient liability, documentation, and claim accuracy. Understanding the general billing and notice issues helps practices reduce confusion and avoid avoidable disputes.

Article Sections

1. AWV and preventive exam overlap

   Introduces the relationship between the annual wellness visit and a separate preventive exam, including the general premise that both may be addressed at the same encounter.

2. How to bill non-covered services with AWVs

   Explains the general Medicare billing and charge-allocation considerations when a non-covered preventive service is provided alongside an AWV.

3. Inform patients of fee increases

   Covers patient communication, office notices, and optional documentation approaches used when additional services or charges may apply during an AWV-related visit.

4. Document administration when patient refuses to complete HRA

   Addresses documentation considerations when the health risk assessment element of the AWV is offered but not completed by the patient.