Medicare Part B (Archive)

Part B is medical insurance. There is a premium and deductible cost associated with this coverage.

Coverage.

Premiums.

Deductibles.

Coverage

Medicare Part B helps cover the following when they are medically necessary:

l  Doctors’ services.

l  Outpatient care.

n  An initial physical exam.

n  Diabetes and cardiovascular screening tests.

l  X-rays.

l  Laboratory services.

l  Certain medical supplies.

l  Medical services not covered by Part A, such as certain services of physical and occupational therapists, and/or home health care.

l  Certain preventative services and tests such as colorectal cancer screenings.

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In general the following services are not covered, although there may be exceptions depending on a person’s medical status or what type of Medicare plan is chosen:

l  Cosmetic surgery.

l  Dental.

l  Acupuncture.

l  Hearing aids.

l  Routine eye care.

Premiums

Most people pay a monthly premium for Part B.

Note:  This premium will be increased by penalties if the enrollee enrolls in Medicare after the date they are first eligible.

For 2006, the premium is $88.50 per month.

Deductibles

A yearly deductible is paid by the person before Medicare begins to pay.

For 2006, the deductible amount is $124.

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