Unraveling Medicare Part B: Medical Insurance

Welcome back to The LYFE Line, your go-to resource by LYFEAHEAD Insurance, where we break down the 'Y's of insurance. In our previous articles, we have been delving into the various parts of Medicare. Today, we continue that journey with a deep dive into Medicare Part B: Medical Insurance.

Medicare Part B is often referred to as medical insurance because it covers the costs of medically necessary and preventative services. Here's a closer look at what Part B covers:

Doctor and Specialist Services

Part B covers the services that you receive from your doctors, including specialists. This includes appointments at their offices, services you receive in a hospital, and telehealth services.

Outpatient Services

This includes outpatient care you receive in a hospital, including partial hospitalization mental health care, and outpatient surgery.

Preventive Services

Medicare Part B also covers a variety of preventive services to keep you healthy. These can include cardiovascular screenings, flu shots, diabetes screenings, and more.

Home Health Services

Under certain conditions, Part B will cover part-time or intermittent skilled care, physical therapy, speech-language pathology services, continued occupational services, and more.

Durable Medical Equipment

Durable medical equipment (DME), like wheelchairs, walkers, and oxygen equipment, is covered under Part B if your doctor deems it medically necessary.

Mental Health Services

Medicare Part B covers mental health services, including yearly depression screenings, visits with a psychiatrist or other doctor, individual and group psychotherapy, and more.

Prescription Drugs

Part B covers a limited number of prescription drugs under certain circumstances, such as drugs used with an item of durable medical equipment, like an infusion pump or drugs given to you by a doctor during an office visit.

CONCLUSION

Unlike Medicare Part A, Part B does require a monthly premium, which is typically deducted from your Social Security, Railroad Retirement, or Civil Service Retirement payment. The cost may vary based on your income.

Remember, LYFEAHEAD Insurance is here to guide you through the 'Y's of your healthcare decisions, ensuring you get the coverage that best suits your needs.

Join us next time on The LYFE Line as we explore Medicare Part C: Medicare Advantage Plans.