Sick Visits Versus Annual Exams

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Sick Visits Versus Annual Exams: Why Florida Patients Need Both

Every year, Molly schedules an annual wellness exam for herself, her husband and her two children. Molly knows that yearly visits are important for preventive care. But she also knows that she can go see her primary care physician (PCP) when she gets sick or if her kids catch what’s going around at school.

While annual exams and sick visits serve different purposes, both options are important for your overall health. In this article, we’ll explore each type of appointment and why patients and families need both.

What Is an Annual Exam?

Your annual wellness visit is a key part of preventive care. During this appointment, you’ll meet with your PCP to talk about your current health conditions, as well as make plans for any lifestyle changes.

During your yearly exam, your PCP may:

  • Check your vitals, like blood pressure and heart rate, as well as your weight (BMI) and height
  • Order blood tests as needed for checking your cholesterol and blood sugar levels, as well as other markers of chronic conditions
  • Offer general health advice on lifestyle changes to help you stay healthy long-term
  • Referrals to specialists as needed for follow-up, like a dermatologist or OB/GYN
  • Review your vaccinations
  • Suggest additional health screenings, such as a mammogram or colonoscopy

What Is a Sick Visit?

A sick visit is an as-needed appointment when you or a family member is feeling unwell, or if you’re experiencing new or worsening symptoms relating to a chronic condition.

During a sick visit, your PCP will normally:

  • Discuss your symptoms
  • Order any diagnostic or lab tests that can help your doctor determine what's wrong, such as a rapid flu test, COVID-19 test or a strep test
  • Perform a light physical examination of the affected areas
  • Prescribe medications or other therapies to help you feel better
  • Refer you to specialists, as needed

Sick Visits Versus Annual Exams: The Key Differences

Annual exams and sick visits are different appointments, each with a specific purpose.

Category

Annual Exam

Sick Visit

PurposePreventive careMedical problem–focused care
FrequencyOnce a yearAs needed
Services OfferedPhysical exam, future health planning, risk assessments, preventive screenings, immunizations and lifestyle adviceImmediate care when you’re not feeling well, or for new or worsening chronic condition symptoms
Insurance Coverage

Most major health insurance providers in Florida cover an annual routine checkup every year.

Medicare covers an annual wellness checkup for Floridians every year.

Most major health insurance plans in Florida cover sick visits. However, any out-of-pocket expenses, such as copays, depend on your specific plan and deductible. Always check with your provider for more information.

Medicare Part B covers PCP visits that are “medically necessary.”

Why Florida Patients Need Both

A sick visit doesn’t replace preventive care — it supports it. If you visit the doctor for allergies, the flu or Strep throat treatment, you’ll still need to schedule your annual wellness visit.

For example, every Floridian knows that the blanket of yellow pollen that covers cars and outdoor furniture each allergy season will also wind up on your clothes, in your house and in your nose and lungs. Pollen can cause extreme discomfort, even for those who don’t typically suffer from allergies. When that happens, scheduling a sick visit with your primary care provider can help you find fast relief, rather than waiting until your next annual wellness exam.

How AdventHealth Primary Care+ Supports Both Types of Visits

Whether you need quick relief from an illness or preventive care to stay well year-round, AdventHealth Primary Care+ board-certified providers are here for every stage of life. Our care teams offer same-day or next-day appointments and will help keep you on schedule for your annual wellness exams and preventive care.

By managing your short-term health needs when illnesses arise and your long-term health goals, your PCP learns your full medical and family history, offering more comprehensive care . This helps ensure that every appointment, from sick visits to annual exams, is focused on your whole health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sick Visits and Annual Exams

Does AdventHealth Primary Care+ offer same-day or next-day sick visits?

Absolutely! At AdventHealth Primary Care+, you can schedule same-day or next-day appointments for sudden health issues like colds, flu or other minor health conditions. Our care teams are here to help you feel better quickly and keep your long-term health on track through ongoing care planning and follow-up.

How often do I need a wellness visit?

Most patients only need one annual wellness exam per year. These visits focus on preventive services, like screenings, immunizations and reviewing your family history, to identify potential health risks early and help you create a personalized health plan for the year ahead.

What is the difference between a well visit and a sick visit?

A well visit (or annual exam) is designed to prevent future health problems by monitoring your overall wellness, managing health risks and developing a proactive care plan. A sick visit focuses on diagnosing and treating specific symptoms or sudden health issues when you’re not feeling your best.

AdventHealth Primary Care+ is Here to Help!

Our AdventHealth Primary Care+ clinics are here to keep you and your family feeling your best. We offer same-day and next-day appointments and have providers throughout Central Florida and West Florida. Find a PCP near you to keep your health and well-being on track.

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