Medicare Part B – Your Medical Insurance
Medicare Part B covers outpatient medical services, ensuring you can access essential care outside of hospital settings. It includes doctor visits, preventive services, outpatient procedures, and medical equipment. Understanding how Part B works is essential to making informed decisions about your healthcare coverage.
What Services are Covered by Medicare Part B?
- Doctor Visits: Whether you need a primary care doctor or a specialist, Medicare Part B ensures you can access care when needed.
- Preventive Services: Screenings, vaccines (like flu shots), and wellness visits help you maintain good health and detect potential health issues early.
- Outpatient Procedures: Includes X-rays, lab tests, and same-day surgeries.
- Durable Medical Equipment: Items such as wheelchairs, walkers, and hospital beds.
How Much Does Medicare Part B Cost?
Medicare Part B requires a monthly premium starting at $174.70 in 2024, with income-based adjustments possible. There’s also an annual deductible of $226. After meeting the deductible, you generally pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for covered services.
Do You Need Medicare Part B?
While Part B is optional, it’s critical for those who need regular medical care or equipment. If you delay enrollment without qualifying for a Special Enrollment Period, you could face a late enrollment penalty that lasts for as long as you have Part B.
Recent Changes to Medicare Part B
In 2024, Medicare expanded its coverage to include more mental health services, such as family therapy and intensive outpatient programs, making care more accessible than ever.
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