Compare 203 geriatricians in Sheffield, AL. Check ratings, insurance, and availability.
The first visit is typically longer than a standard appointment, often 60 to 90 minutes. The geriatrician will perform a comprehensive assessment that includes a medication review, cognitive screening, functional assessment (ability to perform daily activities), fall risk evaluation, and discussion of goals and priorities. They may also assess mood, nutrition, and social support. The goal is a whole-person care plan, not just a list of diagnoses.
Consider seeing a geriatrician if you or an older family member is managing five or more medications, experiencing memory problems or cognitive decline, having frequent falls, dealing with multiple chronic conditions that are difficult to manage together, facing decisions about independent living, needing coordination of complex medical care, or wanting to discuss advance care planning.
Office visit copay: $20-50 · Comprehensive geriatric assessment: covered under Medicare · Cognitive testing: $100-500 · Fall risk assessment: typically included in visit
Geriatric visits are covered as primary care or specialist visits depending on the billing arrangement. Medicare covers the Annual Wellness Visit, which aligns well with geriatric assessment goals. Comprehensive geriatric assessments may be billed as prolonged visits. Some Medicare Advantage plans have enhanced benefits for geriatric care coordination.