Medicare Part B: Medical Insurance
Medicare Part B helps cover outpatient medically necessary services and supplies used to diagnose or treat health conditions. It also includes preventive services to help detect illnesses early and keep you healthy.
Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive screenings, and durable medical equipment. Unlike Part A, Part B has a monthly premium, and most people pay the standard amount (which can vary based on income).
What Does Medicare Part B Cover?
- Doctor visits (primary care and specialists).
- Outpatient care and procedures.
- Preventive services (flu shots, cancer screenings, annual wellness visits).
- Diagnostic tests (lab work, imaging).
- Durable medical equipment (walkers, wheelchairs, oxygen).
- Ambulance services.
- Chemotherapy, dialysis, and other medically necessary treatments.
Part B does not cover routine dental, vision, or hearing care, hearing aids, most prescription drugs, or alternative treatments like acupuncture (with limited exceptions).
Who Is Eligible for Part B?
- You're 65 or older.
- You're under 65 with a qualifying disability.
- You have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).
Enrollment is optional, but delaying without other creditable coverage may trigger a late enrollment penalty.
Out-of-Pocket Costs with Part B
- The standard monthly premium (may be higher based on income).
- An annual deductible.
- Coinsurance, typically 20% of the Medicare-approved amount.
- Copayments for some outpatient services.
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*Disclaimer: This page has not been reviewed or endorsed by Medicare.gov or any member of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).