Index Visit/Initial Signs
An index visit is any visit in which the patient or family member of the patient identifies a specific memory issue of the patient, the health care provider recognizes signs of cognitive impairment, or an annual wellness visit triggers concern. The tools and resources in this section help establish a baseline assessment of changes in behavior or memory and function of your patients.
Suggested Physician Resources
Assessing Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults
Provided by the Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral Center, this resource is a quick guide for physicians to help assess and screen for cognitive impairment in your patients.
Annual Wellness Visit (AWV)
The Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) is a Medicare benefit added through the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The AWV focuses on long-term preventive care. Detection of cognitive impairment is a component of the AWV. This resource provides information on the AWV benefit, eligibility, required components, and coding and billing specifics. AAFP members can access our easy-to-read supplement on AWVs here.