Medicare Part B
What is Medicare Part B and what does it cover?
Medicare Part B falls under Original Medicare by the US federal government and covers all outpatient healthcare services administered by healthcare professionals after being admitted into a hospital or nursing facility.
It covers:
- At Home Healthcare
Medicare Part B covers skilled nursing or therapy once you are discharged from a healthcare facility.
- Preventative Healthcare
It covers Medicare-certified physical, occupational, and speech therapy sessions for outpatients.
- Ambulance services
It covers emergency transportation by ambulance and alternative, medically necessary transportation for non-emergencies on a conditional basis.
- Medical Tests
Medicare Part B takes care of all lab tests and x-rays ordered by your doctor.
- Durable Medical Equipment
If you require medical equipment that can be used at home, it will be covered by Medicare Part B provided it will be able to withstand repeated use.
- Select Prescription Drugs
Medicare Part B covers common drugs administered by doctors and certain drugs including immunosuppressant and select anti-cancer, antiemetic, and dialysis drugs.
- Provider Services
If any healthcare service is deemed medically necessary, it is covered by Medicare Part B.
Medicare Part B costs and excess charges
Medicare Part B coverage is typically paid for in monthly premiums decided by the United States government and they depend on your income. Once you exceed your deductible limits, you will pay for 20% of the remaining costs and all excess charges for your healthcare expenses.
The good news, however, is that you can enroll in Medicare supplementary plans to cover any excess costs you incur.
How to enroll in Medicare Part B
If you are a Social Security beneficiary, you are automatically enrolled in Medicare Part B and will most likely receive your card before your birthday. However, if you are not a Social Security beneficiary, you can either enroll online, via phone, or swing by your local Social Security offices for registration. In this case, you will receive your card within 21 days after applying successfully.