What Most Seniors Miss About Medicare Part B Coverage And Monthly Costs

Medicare is our country’s health insurance program. The program helps with the cost of health care, but does not cover all medical expenses or the cost of long term care. It is split into parts, some of which you must pay a premium for. Medicare Part B is one of these. It is your primary medical insurance that covers service and supplies that are medically necessary to treat your health condition.

What sort of service are covered under Medicare Part B?

The types of services that you can expect to be covered under part B include outpatient care, ambulances, medical equipment and preventative services. It also covers part time or intermittent home health and rehabilitative services such as physical therapy if they are ordered by a doctor to treat your condition.

Who is eligible for Medicare Part B?

Anyone who is eligible for premium-free Medicare Part A is eligible for Medicare Part B by enrolling and paying a monthly premium. If you are not eligible for premium-free Part A, you can still qualify for Part B if you are over 65 and have resided in the US for at least five years continuously. You may also qualify through disability. If you are receiving disability benefits, you will automatically be enrolled in both Medicare Part A and B.

How much does Medicare Part B cost?

Premiums change from year to year, and the amount can vary depending on your situation. If you are enrolling for the first time this year, expect to pay approximately $120 per month. If you are receiving Social Security, federal retirement benefits, or Railroad Retirement Board, your Part B premium will be taken from your monthly benefit without you having to do it.