When it comes to managing your health, understanding the different types of medical appointments can be just as important as the visits themselves. At White Mountain Regional Medical Center (WMRMC), we want to ensure that you are well-informed about the nature of your visits so you can plan effectively and avoid unexpected costs. Let’s explore the differences between a Preventive Physical Visit and an Office Visit, and how each one plays a unique role in your healthcare journey.
Click here to download the quick reference PDF
What is a Preventive Physical Visit?
A Preventive Physical is a comprehensive review of your health and well-being. It's an opportunity for you and your personal doctor to take a proactive approach to your healthcare. During this visit, your doctor will perform a thorough physical exam and offer suggestions to improve your health. This might include changes to your diet, exercise routine, or recommendations for disease screenings.
One of the great advantages of preventive care is that most insurance plans cover these visits at no charge, considering they're essential to preventing health issues. We encourage you to log into your insurance member portal or contact our business office to understand the preventive health benefits your plan offers.
Understanding Office Visits
An Office Visit is typically for discussing specific health problems that you may be experiencing. Whether you have new symptoms or are managing ongoing health issues, this type of visit is the time to address them with your doctor. Your doctor may prescribe X-rays, labs, refer you to a specialist, or discuss treatment options during an Office Visit.
It's important to note that, based on your insurance benefits, Office Visits can result in additional costs. We recommend checking your specific plan details or speaking with our business office to avoid any surprises on your bill.
Can One Appointment Cover Both Needs?
Sometimes, one appointment can serve as both a preventive physical and an Office Visit. If your visit transitions into consultation or treatment for a specific condition, your provider is legally required to report these services, which could result in additional charges. It's a good practice to discuss with your provider beforehand what your visit will entail.
How Does This Affect You?
Understanding the distinction between these two types of visits not only helps you make informed decisions about your health but also assists in managing your healthcare expenses. Combining visits might save you time, but it could impact your costs depending on the nature of your appointment and your insurance coverage.
At WMRMC, we are here to help you navigate these decisions and support your health needs. By staying informed, you can get the most out of your healthcare experiences with us. We're dedicated to building a stronger, healthier community, and it starts with ensuring our patients feel connected and informed.
If you have any questions or need further clarification, we are just a call away. Reach out to us at (928) 333-4368. At WMRMC, your health and peace of mind are our highest priority.
Remember, when you're informed, you're empowered – and that's exactly how we want every patient to feel at WMRMC.