What Is Medicare Part B?
Medicare Part B covers health insurance plans for people aged 65 or older, as well as individuals who belong to other specific groups. It is the part of Medicare that provides medical insurance coverage.
Medicare consists of various parts, including Part A and Part B. Medicare Part B includes medical services such as doctor appointments, outpatient testing, and emergency services.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Medicare Part B—what it includes, how much it costs, who’s eligible, and when you can enroll.
What Does Medicare Part B Cover?
Medicare Part B helps pay for medically necessary services such as:
- Doctor services and outpatient care
- Home health care
- Durable medical equipment
- Preventive services
It does not generally cover routine dental services like cleanings, fillings, tooth extractions, or dentures. Some dental procedures tied to medical conditions may be covered, but most routine dental care is not.
Medicare Part B also covers certain preventive services. To check if you have Medicare Part B, look at your Medicare card.
Medically Necessary Services Include:
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
- Ambulance Services
- Blood
- Bone Mass Measurement
- Cardiac Rehabilitation
- Cardiovascular Screenings
- Chiropractic Services (limited)
- Clinical Laboratory Services
- Clinical Research Studies
- Colorectal Cancer Screenings
- Defibrillator
- Diabetes Screenings
- Diabetes Self-Management Training
- Diabetes Supplies
- Doctor Services
- Durable Medical Equipment
- EKG Screenings
- Emergency Department Services
- Eyeglasses (after cataract surgery)
- Federally Qualified Health Center Services
- Flu Shots
- Foot Exams and Treatment (for diabetes)
- Glaucoma Tests
- Hearing and Balance Exams
- Hepatitis B Shots
- HIV Screening
- Home Health Services
- Kidney Dialysis Services and Supplies
- Kidney Disease Education Services
- Mammograms (screening)
- Medical Nutrition Therapy
- Mental Health Care (outpatient)
- Non-doctor Services
- Occupational Therapy
- Outpatient Medical and Surgical Services and Supplies
- Pap Tests and Pelvic Exams (including clinical breast exam)
- Physical Exams
- Physical Therapy
- Pneumococcal Shot
- Limited Prescription Drugs
- Prostate Cancer Screenings
- Prosthetic/Orthotic Items
- Pulmonary Rehabilitation
- Rural Health Clinic Services
- Second Surgical Opinions
- Smoking Cessation Counseling
- Speech-Language Pathology Services
- Surgical Dressing Services
- Telehealth Services
- Tests (non-lab)
- Transplants and Immunosuppressive Drugs
What Services Are Not Covered By Medicare Part B?
Some services are not covered by Medicare Part B. If you need these, you’ll typically have to pay out-of-pocket or use additional coverage:
- Routine physical exams
- Most prescription drugs
- Dental care
- Most vision care (including contact lenses and glasses)
- Hearing aids
- Long-term care
- Cosmetic surgery
- Alternative healthcare (e.g., acupuncture)
Who Is Eligible for Medicare Part B?
You’re eligible for Medicare Part B if:
- You’re 65 years or older
- You have a qualifying disability
- You have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
To be eligible, you typically must also qualify for premium-free Part A. Most people qualify based on their work history and the Medicare taxes they paid. If you don’t qualify for premium-free Part A, you can still buy it, but you must also be a U.S. citizen or legal resident for at least 5 continuous years.
How Much Does Medicare Part B Cost?
Monthly Premiums
Your monthly premiums are what you pay each month for Part B coverage. For 2024, the typical Part B monthly premium is $174.70.
People with higher annual incomes may pay more based on their 2022 tax returns.
Top Benefits of Using a Local Medicare Agent
If you are unsure about which Medicare plan to choose, a Medicare agent can guide you in selecting the best plan for your needs.
Medicare Agent Knows The Market:
Agents are up to date on the latest plans and industry changes. They help you make well-informed decisions.
Access To Multiple Providers:
Agents can compare multiple insurance companies and save you time while helping you find a suitable plan.
Value For Money:
They are not tied to one company and can help you find the most cost-effective plan across multiple providers.
One-On-One Attention:
An agent provides personalized support based on your unique situation—age, location, health condition, and more.
What Are the Major Benefits of Medicare Part B?
While optional, Medicare Part B is essential for covering routine and preventive medical needs.
Major benefits include:
- Doctor visits
- Preventive services
- Outpatient care
- Durable Medical Equipment (DME)
- Mental health services
- Ambulance services
- Home health care
- Certain prescription drugs
- Outpatient therapy
Conclusion
Medicare Part B offers a wide range of outpatient and preventive services. It includes doctor visits, lab tests, mental health support, and necessary medical supplies. Though it requires monthly premiums and some cost-sharing, it is a key part of healthcare coverage for seniors and others who qualify.