Medicare is a federal health insurance program designed to provide senior citizens and people with disabilities with affordable health care coverage. Original Medicare consists of two main parts; Part A hospital insurance and Part B medical insurance.
This is what you need to know about Medicare Part B.
What Is Original Medicare?
Original Medicare is the standard Medicare plan. Millions of Americans are currently enrolled in this plan, and most of them have both Part A and Part B benefits. Through their Medicare plan, they receive useful benefits, like coverage for services rendered in hospitals and coverage for medically necessary services.
To be eligible for Medicare, you must be age 65 or older or diagnosed with a qualifying disability. If you have been diagnosed with a disability recently, you must collect Social Security disability benefits for at least 24 months before you can sign up for Medicare. To learn more, contact an insurance professional.
More About Medicare Part B
Medicare Part B specifically covers:
• Medically necessary services
• Preventive health services
Through Part B, you can access coverage for most doctor services, outpatient therapy, and Durable Medical Equipment. The plan will also cover things like clinical research, ambulance services, mental health care, and limited outpatient prescription drugs.
Medicare Part B Costs
Medicare Part B isn’t available as premium-free like Part A is for some. Therefore, you always have to pay a premium to keep your benefits active. As of 2024, the required Part B monthly premium is $174.70.
In addition to the premiums, you will also need to pay any out-of-pocket costs associated with your plan. This may include coinsurance, copayments, deductibles, and excess charges. With this in mind, you should always check with your health care provider to see how much of any service is covered and what you will be required to pay yourself.
Medicare Contact
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Explore Medicare Options
Would you like to join a Medicare plan or make changes to an existing plan?
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Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. Insurance products are offered through the insurance business Heritage First. Heritage First is also an Investment Advisory practice that offers products and services through AE Wealth Management, LLC (AEWM), a Registered Investment Adviser. The AEWM does not offer insurance products. The insurance products offered by Heritage First are not subject to Investment Advisor requirements. AEWM and Heritage First are not affiliated companies.
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