Part B - Coverage and Benefits

What is covered

Description/Examples

Doctor visits

Visits to a doctor or specialist

Outpatient care

Outpatient treatment, Psychiatric care

Screening and Clinical lab services

Blood tests, X-rays, MRIs, Other screening tests

Durable medical equipment

Wheelchairs, Walkers etc as recommended by doctors

Preventive Services (most paid for in full by Medicare)

Annual wellness visits, Flu shots, Breast cancer screening, Cardiovascular disease screenings and  rehabilitation, Diabetes screening, Alcohol misuse screening and counseling

Kidney dialysis services and supplies

Three dialyses per week if you have ESRD

Ambulance services, emergency services  and blood transfusion

Transportation to a hospital or SNF, sudden illness and injury

Pulmonary rehabilitation

Covers moderate to severe chronic obstructive disease

Home health services

Physical therapy, Social services etc. Should be needed only intermittently and ordered by a doctor

Examples of what is NOT covered

Description

Prescription Drugs

Covered under Part D (Prescription Drug Plans). Only very limited drugs may be covered by Part B, especially those used during outpatient care

Dental, Vision, Hearing

Not covered by Medicare, with a few exceptions. Some Part C plans may cover these partly as additional benefits (for an additional premium).

Foot care

Routine foot care is not covered, with a few exceptions

Cosmetic surgery

Not covered by Medicare, with a few exceptions

Acupuncture

Not covered by Medicare