Medicare Part B Explained: What Does It Cover?

Arizona Health Insurance Agents Help Understand The Medicare Part B Program

If you are a senior looking for health insurance, Medicare may be an excellent option. However, Medicare’s different programs can feel overwhelming and confusing. To make this process simpler, your Mesa Medicare insurance agents have compiled this helpful guide to answer your basic questions about the Medicare Part B program. 

Health Insurance Brokers Explain What Does Medicare Part B Cover In Phoenix, AZ

What Is Medicare Part B?

Medicare Part B is an insurance plan available through Queen Creek Medicare insurance brokers that covers outpatient care, including procedures and medications you need to treat medical conditions. The plan also covers other types of care including well visits, screenings and diagnosis procedures, mental health counseling, and some other healthcare services. 

Who Is Eligible For Medicare Part B?

In order to be eligible for Medicare Part B, you must be at least 65 years old and either a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Some people under age 65 are eligible for Medicare Part B if they have received social security disability benefits or railroad retirement board disability benefits for at least 24 months. People who have end stage renal disease or ALS are also eligible for Medicare Part B even if they are younger than 65.

What Does Medicare Part B Cover?

Medicare Part B will cover 80 percent of the cost of certain healthcare services. Many of these services can be received on an outpatient basis, which means you can get them at your local clinic and don’t need to be a hospitalized patient. Additionally, emergency room visits can also be paid for through Medicare Part B. Your care will need to be administered by a Medicare-approved care provider, such as an MD, DO, or NP. Your Chandler Medicare insurance agent can help you find these providers and help you understand if Medicare Part B is a good option for you.  

Healthcare services that Medicare Part B covers include:

  • Most doctor visits that are medically necessary as part of medical treatment, as long as they are with a Medicare-approved provider
  • Well visits and preventative care visits, as long as they are with a Medicare-approved provider
  • Outpatient hospital care such as emergency room visits and same-day surgeries
  • Some vaccinations, such as an annual flu shot or pneumonia vaccine
  • Screenings and diagnostic tests to check for medical conditions such as glaucoma, diabetes, depression, heart disease, alcohol abuse, sexually transmitted infections, and cancers
  • Other diagnostic testing and preventative screenings, including mammograms, colonoscopies, and pap smears
  • Laboratory testing
  • X-rays if needed for a diagnosis, treatment, or injury care
  • Medical equipment such as oxygen tanks
  • Some home health services
  • Emergency transportation such as an ambulance ride
  • Mental health services and cessation of smoking treatment
  • Chiropractic care
  • Some prescription medications

How Much Does Medicare Part B Cost?

Costs are subject to change annually. In 2022, Medicare Part B has an out-of-pocket annual deductible of $233 that must be paid before medically necessary services will be covered. There is also a monthly premium, which will be $170.10 in 2022. People who are still working and earn more than $91,000 annually or a joint income of more than $182,000 will pay higher monthly premiums. 

How Do I Enroll In Medicare Part B?

You can sign up for Medicare Part B beginning 3 months before your 65th birthday to the three months after that birthday. If you have other conditions such as ALS or end stage renal disease, the enrollment periods are different. Talk with your Glendale Medicare insurance brokers for assistance so you can meet the deadlines and get the care you need.

Which Medicare Plan Should I Choose?

The best way to determine this is to talk with your Arizona Medicare insurance agents to learn about your options. You may want to talk with your healthcare provider and your family to help you make the best choice for your individual needs. While Medicare Part B is a good plan for many seniors, Medicare Part A or C may be better depending on your health needs, income, and location. Each plan has different costs, rules, and restrictions. Medicare Part D, which provides prescription medication coverage, and Medicare supplemental insurance plans may be helpful add-ons for many people. It’s also good to know that you can change Medicare plans if the one you chose is no longer a good option for your situation.

Contact Reliable Medicare Insurance Brokers In Phoenix

Learn more about your coverage options and what type of Medicare may be right for you by contacting your local and friendly Arizona Medicare insurance brokers at Phoenix Health Insurance. Our experienced agents can work with you to find the best choice at a great price so you have the coverage you need. Call our office today to set up your consultation!

 

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Phoenix Health Insurance 
20823 N Cave Creek RD, Building B Suite 101
Phoenix, AZ 85024
Phone: (480) 680-8120
Email: info@phxhealthinsurance.com
Website: https://phxhealthinsurance.com/