What is Medicare Part B?
Medicare Part B is known as medical insurance and is the second core component of Original Medicare. While Part A focuses primarily on inpatient and facility care, Medicare Part B helps cover everyday medical services and preventive care.
How Do You Get Medicare Part B?
Eligibility for Medicare Part B generally begins at age 65, though some individuals qualify earlier due to disability.
Enrollment may be automatic if you are already receiving Social Security benefits. If not, you can enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period.
Unlike Part A, Medicare Part B requires an active enrollment decision for many individuals, and timing matters. Delaying enrollment without other qualifying coverage can result in late enrollment penalties.
How Much Does Medicare Part B Cost?
Medicare Part B requires a monthly premium, which is typically adjusted annually, and may be income-adjusted.
In addition to the monthly premium, costs may include:
- An annual deductible
-
Coinsurance, often a percentage of the Medicare-approved amount for services
Because Part B covers many frequently used services, understanding these ongoing costs is essential when planning for healthcare expenses.
What does Medicare Part B cover?
Medicare Part B helps cover medically necessary and preventive services, including:
✓ Doctor visits and specialist care
✓ Outpatient services and procedures
✓ Preventive care, such as screenings, vaccines, and wellness visits
✓ Diagnostic tests, including lab work and imaging
✓ Durable medical equipment, like walkers or wheelchairs
✓ Some home health services
Medicare Part B will NOT cover:
X Long Term Custodial Care
X Cosmetic Procedures
X Routine Dental, Vision, or Hearing care
X Most prescription drugs taken at home
X Non-medically necessary services