Medicare Part B – Outpatient Medical
Medicare Part B provides coverage for most outpatient services. For example, doctor visits, preventive services, lab and x-ray, emergency transportation, and outpatient surgery are all covered under the Part B benefit. A general rule of thumb is: If you’re not in a hospital or facility overnight, then it’s a Part B service.
Since Part B is insurance coverage (albeit a social insurance coverage), it has a premium associated with it. The Part B premium will vary depending on your adjusted gross income. Click here to see a chart with detailed information.
Like all parts of Medicare, Part B does not cover these services completely. There are three Part B liabilities that Medicare expects you to help cover.
- Part B Deductible
- Coinsurance
- Excess Charges
For a more detailed explanation of what these charges entail, click here.
Now, if you’re reading this and are beginning to get a little nervous about paying for all these charges, take heart! Private insurance is to the rescue. A Medicare Supplement policy, or Medigap policy, can fill all of these liabilities for you. Click here to learn more.
