Medicare Part B

O riginal Medicare comprises two parts: Part A (hospital insurance) and B (medical insurance). While they can work together, coverage doesn't overlap. Once you're eligible for Medicare, it's part A and B that you enroll in first. Here 's a look at the differences between Part A and B. Part A This part covers hospital expenses, including hospital stays, expert nursing care, home health-care services, and hospice. The services in this part might require you to pay coinsurance, various deductibles, and copayments. Numerous people are eligible for premium-free Part A because of paying taxes toward Medicare while they or their spouse worked for at least 10 years. Otherwise, you might need to pay monthly premiums. Part B This part helps cover medically essential supplies and services required for the treatment or diagnosis of your medical condition. This comprises outpatient services obtained at a doctor's office, hospital, clinic, or other medical facilities. This part B further helps cover numerous preventive services to avert illness or detect them earlier. Additionally, it covers medically essential durable health equipment such as walkers and wheelchairs to treat a condition. Costs vary for this part but you'll often pay a deductible and 20% of the approved amount provided the provider you use accepts Medicare assignment. Most people pay a premium for this part even if they have a Medicare Advantage plan that offers part A and B benefits. Part B benefits

• X-rays and laboratory tests
• Doctor visits
• Emergency ambulance services
• Preventive services, for instance, flu shots, pap tests, and screenings