Understanding Medicare Advantage Home Visits: What You Need to Know

If you are one of the 17 million people insured by a Medicare Advantage plan, you may be surprised to receive an offer for a home visit. These visits, which are on the rise according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, are not just for the sick or housebound. Even healthy and mobile patients are being offered home visits, and millions have already undergone them.

What Are Medicare Advantage Home Visits?

A Medicare Advantage home visit typically lasts between 45 minutes to one hour and includes:

• A physical exam

• A review of your health history

• Lab tests

These visits are conducted by a nurse practitioner or physician who is under contract with your insurance plan. After the visit, the results are forwarded to your primary care provider for follow-up.

The Purpose of Medicare Advantage Home Visits

While the purpose of these home visits may not be immediately clear, insurers stress that they are not meant to replace your annual physical or recommended screening tests. Instead, they serve as a complement to your regular healthcare routine.

Some potential benefits of Medicare Advantage home visits include:

• Identifying potential health concerns early on

• Providing personalized care in the comfort of your own home

• Improving communication between you and your healthcare providers

What to Expect During a Medicare Advantage Home Visit

During a Medicare Advantage home visit, you can expect a thorough examination and discussion about your health. The nurse practitioner or physician will:

1. Conduct a physical exam

2. Review your health history and medications

3. Perform any necessary lab tests

4. Answer any questions you may have about your health

After the visit, the healthcare professional will share the results with your primary care provider, ensuring that everyone involved in your care is well-informed and working together to maintain your health.

The Bottom Line

Medicare Advantage home visits are becoming increasingly common, even for healthy individuals. While they should not replace your regular check-ups and screening tests, these visits can provide valuable insights into your health and help you receive more personalized care. If you are offered a home visit through your Medicare Advantage plan, consider taking advantage of this opportunity to better understand and manage your health.

For more information on Medicare Advantage plans and home visits, consult the following resources:

• Medicare.gov - Medicare Advantage Plans

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services - Press Release on Medicare Advantage

• AARP - Understanding Medicare Advantage Home Visits