Initial Preventive Physical Examination - Definition

The initial preventive physical examination (IPPE), or “Welcome to Medicare Visit”, is a preventive evaluation and management service (E/M) that includes:

1. Review of the individual’s medical and social history with attention to modifiable risk factors for disease detection;
   
   
2. Review of the individual’s potential (risk factors) for depression or other mood disorders;
   
   
3. Review of the individual’s functional ability and level of safety;
   
   
4. A physical examination to include measurement of the individual’s height, weight, blood pressure, a visual acuity screen, and other factors as deemed appropriate by the examining physician or qualified non-physician
   practitioner (NPP);
   
   
5. Performance and interpretation of an electrocardiogram (EKG);
   
   
6. Education, counseling, and referral, as deemed appropriate, based on the results of the review and evaluation services described in the previous five elements; and
   
   
7. Education, counseling, and referral including a brief written plan (e.g., a checklist or alternative) provided to the individual for obtaining the appropriate screening and other preventive services, which are separately covered under Medicare Part B benefits.
   
   

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) developed a quick reference chart entitled The ABCs of Providing the Initial Preventive Physical Examination. The chart is available in downloadable PDF format at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNProducts/downloads/MPS_QRI_IPPE001a.pdf on the CMS website.