Did you know that Sun City/Huntley’s Wellness Department now provides one yearly free Wellness Visit or “Well Check” to residents who have had Medicare Part B for longer than 12 months? Lab work and diagnostics requiring a copy, and Medicare Part B deductible are not included in the checkup.
Centegra will address acute problems, though non-emergency issues will be rescheduled for a follow-up visit with your own primary physician. Plan to make an appointment with Heather Harren, Centegra’s nurse practioner, who is available to do Medicare Well Checks in Centegra’s Wellness Center, Prairie Lodge, on Tuesdays and Fridays from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. For an appointment, you can call 847-515-2078.
The Centegra Well Check includes a check of vision, blood pressure, pulse, temperature, height, weight, body mass, mood issues, and memory/cognitive issues. It also includes a medical, surgical, and family history review, and a check of prescription and non-prescription medications and supplements taken. The conclusion of the exam includes a discussion of lifestyle habits such as diet, exercise, and alcohol/tobacco usage.
For those over the age of 50, Heather recommends the following yearly screening tests, also recommended by AARP and Medicare:
For All:
1. Colon health – colonoscopy (frequency depends on physician’s recommendation) and fecal occult blood test
2. Heart health: blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and weight
3. Blood work: blood cell count and electrolytes
4. Bone density
5. Nutrition
6. Depression/alcohol use
7. Eye screening: especially glaucoma (to include macular degeneration and cataract exams)
For Men:
8. Prostate PSA.
For Women:
9. Mammogram
10. PAP Smear
WebMD also recommends these three yearly exams for all: thyroid hormone test (especially for women), skin screening, and dental check-ups (preferred six month check-ups).
Harren recommends these as the most important tests to have done:
1. Heart health: blood pressure, weight, and EKG
2. Blood cell count and electrolytes. This gives a general picture of overall health and looks at blood sugars as well.
3. Depression/alcohol (drug) use screening.
“These three tests can all be done by your primary care provider during your yearly physical,” Harren said.
