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Originally Posted On: What Does Medicare Part B Cover? 3 Fast Facts You Should Know. – Senior Affair

If you’re a user with Medicare Part B, you need to know your benefits. You’ll learn everything you need to know in this Senior Affair comprehensive guide to Medicare Part B coverage.

When you’re trying to get coverage for your medical needs, it’s vital to opt for the right plan. Medicare recipients need to learn which plans apply to their needs and what kind of services are covered.

Part B coverage is a plan that you can bundle with Part A during your enrollment. So what is Medicare Part B coverage, and how can I get it?

Read below to learn the answers to these questions and others as you shop for coverage.

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What Exactly is Medicare Part B Coverage?

When you start researching the Medicare program, you’ll notice they break down coverage into these categories. The main types are Medicare Part A, Part B, and Part D.

Part B deals with standard medical treatments and certain prevention services, which differs from Part A, covering matters like hospital inpatient visits.

What Does Medicare Part B Cover and What Should I Know About It?

So what does Medicare Part B cover specifically? Here are some examples of Part B in action and what you should know about opting for this coverage:

1.) Part B Covers Medically Necessary Services

When you go to the physician, specialist, or other professionals for medically necessary treatment, you’re using your Part B coverage. Some eligible medical treatments include physician treatments, physical therapy services, diabetes testing, cardiologist exams, immunizations, blood work, and general physical examinations.

You’ll need to consult your Medicare handbook during enrollment to see the complete list of services covered.

2.) Includes Medical Equipment and Ambulance Transport

Many patients also use Medical Part B for durable medical equipment.

Some examples of durable medical equipment might include scooters, crutches, wheelchairs, blood sugar monitors and testing strips, oxygen equipment, beds, and lifts. Check with your provider to see if ambulance services are covered, especially if you regularly take ambulance trips.

3.) Understand Eligibility and the Enrollment Process

Enrollment and eligibility are foundational to you applying for and receiving the coverage that you need. With original Medicare plans, you must be 65 years of age or older or care based on specific disabilities.

You can start enrolling in Medicare coverage three months before your 65th birthday through 3 months after.

Once you’re eligible for Medicare and your initial enrollment period opens, you can apply for both Part A and Part B. You’ll avoid penalties or higher premiums when you opt for Part B at your time of eligibility rather than later.

Apply for the Medical Coverage That You Need

Now that you understand more about Medicare Part B coverage check your eligibility and get the ball rolling on your application. You can enroll once you initially become eligible or apply during the general enrollment period, which runs from January 31 to March 31.

Keep doing your research as you shop for original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans. Now that you understand Part B, you can pair it with your Part A coverage and a Part D plan covering your prescription costs.