Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Questions About Medicare Part B

Medicare Part B is one of the coverage options you can receive once you reach the age of 65 or become disabled. This is a government program that provides medical coverage to United States citizens. This type of coverage can often be confusing and consumers often have many questions about the service it provides.


What Does Medicare Part B Cover?


Medicare Part B covers a wide variety of services and treatments not covered by Part A. This policy provides coverage on doctor visits as well as with some preliminary screenings. Medicare Part B coverages are broken down into two types of services: medically necessary and preventive. If you need some lab work or tests run, this part of Medicare would most likely be the one to pay. Cancer and diabetic screenings are also covered. If you have any outpatient procedures at the hospital, this coverage would potentially cover it.


Do You Have to Pay for Medicare Part B?


This portion of Medicare does require a monthly premium payment on your part. The premium payment will depend on how much you make as well. Most people pay a standard amount for their Medicare Part B premium. If you make above a certain amount of money, you will have to pay a slightly higher amount for your monthly premium. With Medicare Part A, you do not have to pay any premiums for coverage.


Does Medicare Part B Cover any Extra Medical Expenses?


This type of coverage can provide some coverage for alternative medical treatments and items that other insurance policies may not cover. For example, it can provide coverage for some types of chiropractic work if your spine is out of alignment. It can also provide you with a pair of eyeglasses if you have cataract surgery. Some home health services are also covered, such as visits from a skilled nursing facility. Some clinical trials may also be covered if they are involved with diagnosing a disease.


Do I Have to Sign Up for Medicare Part B Immediately?


You do not necessarily have to sign up for Medicare Part B immediately when you are eligible. In some cases, you can put off purchasing this type of coverage for a certain amount of time. For example, if you are still working and your employer provides medical insurance, you do not have to buy Part B yet. You also have eight months after you stop working to buy Medicare Part B without having to pay higher premiums. You may want to buy Medicare Part B even if you are covered by an employer just so that you are covered for every possible medical expense.







Tags: Medicare Part, also covered, type coverage, certain amount, Does Medicare, Does Medicare Part, Medicare Part Cover