What is Medicare Part B and Why Is It Important?
If you’re turning 65, you may be wondering what the deal is with Medicare Part B. What is it exactly, and why do you need it? Well, allow me to explain. Medicare Part B is a type of insurance designed specifically for people over age 65. It helps pay for medical services like doctor visits, hospitalizations, laboratory tests, and more. In other words, Medicare Part B protects you against the high cost of health care.
What Does Medicare Part B Cover?
Medicare Part B covers a wide range of medical services. These include things like doctor visits and hospital stays, as well as lab tests and x-rays. It also covers preventive care such as flu shots and some immunizations. Additionally, Part B covers certain types of durable medical equipment like wheelchairs and walkers.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of Medicare Part B coverage varies based on your income level. For most people, the premium for Part B coverage is $135 per month in 2020 (though this amount can change each year). Most seniors will also have to pay a deductible before their coverage kicks in—this amount is currently set at $198 per year. After you’ve paid your deductible for the year, you’ll typically only have to pay 20% of the approved amount for any covered services or equipment that you use during that time period.
Merging Parts A & B
In some cases, it may make sense to combine Parts A and B into one policy called a Medigap plan (also known as a supplemental insurance plan).
This kind of plan can help cover some or all of the costs associated with having both parts A &B together—including deductibles and copayments—and can provide additional benefits like prescription drug coverage or vision/dental insurance that are not included in basic Parts A &B plans alone.
All in all, Medicare Part B provides important protection against rising health care costs for seniors over age 65. Not only does it cover essential medical services like doctor visits and lab tests, but it also pays for preventive care such as flu shots or immunizations. Plus if you decide to merge Parts A &B into one policy (a Medigap plan), there are even more benefits available to help keep your health care costs down – no matter what unexpected illnesses come your way! So when it comes time for seniors turning 65 to make their health care decisions – don’t forget about Medicare Part B!
