Start early: Schedule Medicare Annual Wellness Visits in the first half of the year.

An opportunity to improve HOS outcomes.

The Medicare Health Outcomes Survey (HOS) is an important component of the Medicare Star Ratings program. The longitudinal survey asks members about their physical and mental health, functional status, and specific health concerns to measure changes in health outcomes over time.

Recent HOS results highlight opportunities to improve outcomes related to fall risk and maintaining or improving physical and mental health. In particular, members are asked whether they have discussed fall-risk management recommendations with their healthcare provider. The HOS also measures changes in members’ physical and mental health over time.

The advantages of early AWV scheduling.

When possible, scheduling Medicare Annual Wellness Visits (AWVs) during the first half of the year gives providers more time to identify and address these needs, follow up on concerns, and reinforce important health conversations before members complete the HOS.

During the AWV, be sure to talk with members about:

• Fall risk: Discuss fall history, risk factors, and recommendations for managing fall risk. Discuss practical steps they can take to reduce their risk and maintain their safety and independence.
• Urinary incontinence: Ask about bladder control concerns and connect members with appropriate care and resources.
• Mental health: Discuss depression, anxiety, social isolation, and other concerns affecting well-being, and provide support and resources.
• Physical health, function, and activity: Talk about mobility, daily activities, pain, and physical activity, including ways to safely stay active and maintain or improve physical function.

Reinforce the conversation.

Addressing these topics during the AWV and reinforcing them throughout the year can help members understand their health risks, follow recommended interventions, and keep these important conversations top of mind when they complete the HOS.