What is Medicare Part B?

Answer:
Medicare is a federal health insurance program that

covers people age 65 and above and other qualified individuals. Medicare is composed of several different parts: Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D.

Part B is the part of Medicare that covers doctors’ services and outpatient care. This is the medical insurance component of the Medicare program. For example, Part A is the “hospital insurance” component that covers facility charges while Part B pays for the medical services. It also pays some of the services that Part A doesn’t such as some home health care and physical and occupational therapist services.

Part B covers physician care whether the services were performed at a hospital, outpatient care center, or doctor’s office. In addition, lab tests, rehabilitation services, and ambulance services are also covered under Medicare Part B.

Standard Part B premiums for 2008 are $96.40 per month though some people will pay more based on their income. For example, if you are single and earn less than $82,000 (or less than $164,000 if married), you will qualify for the standard monthly premiums. Premiums and income limits are adjusted each year.


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