Medicare Part B

What is Medicare Part B Coverage?

Quick Guide To Part B
Medicare Part B is a supplemental insurance option for people who qualify for Medicare. Its purpose is to provide coverage for health care not covered under Part A. Part B provides coverage for doctors services outside the hospital setting and other medical services that Part A doesn't cover. Additional services covered include:

Doctor visits -- whether received as an inpatient at a hospital or at a doctor's office, or as an outpatient at a hospital or other health care facility
Laboratory tests and X-rays
Physical therapy or rehabilitation services,
Ambulance service.
Some home health care.
Various medical equipment and supplies when they are medically necessary

You must sign up for Medicare Part B and pay a monthly premium, and yearly deductible. The cost for the premium is deducted from your Social Security check. For approved services and supplies, you are responsible for a 20 percent co-pay. The premium cost increases each January. If you do not sign up for Medicare Part B when you are first eligible, you may have to permanently pay a higher monthly premium.

How do I know if I have Part B coverage?

Your Medicare card will tell you if you have Part B coverage. If you have it, Medicare Part B will be listed on your card. Don't worry if you are not covered, you can still sign up. However, it may cost you more if your initial enrollment period has passed, which is three months before to three months after your 65th birthday.

To enroll, visit your local Social Security office or call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-722-1213. Part B is not free, there's a monthly fee that is usually taken right out of your Social Security payment or retirement benefits. The fee ranges from $96.40 per month (2010) to a maximum of $353.60 depending on your income. There is also a yearly deductible for Part B services of $155 (2010). After you pay the deductible, your part B benefit begins. In most cases any purchases will have a 20 percent co-pay.

When you sign up, you will be given three options. Choose carefully because the benefits are different under each of the options. You may choose between:

Original Medicare Plan
Medicare Advantage Plans (similar to HMOs or PPOs)
Medicare private fee-for-service plan

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