The short answer
What does Medicare Part B cover?
Medicare Part B generally helps cover doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, durable medical equipment, and other medically necessary services. Most people pay a monthly premium, and delaying Part B without qualifying current-employment coverage can cause a coverage gap or late-enrollment penalty.
Use this guide to understand the basics, then verify current coverage rules and costs before you enroll.
Care Part B may cover
- Doctor and specialist visits
- Outpatient hospital services
- Preventive screenings and vaccines
- Ambulance services when requirements are met
- Durable medical equipment
- Certain mental health and home health services
Premiums and cost sharing
Most people pay a monthly Part B premium. The amount can depend on income. A yearly deductible and coinsurance may apply, and there is generally no annual out-of-pocket limit for Part B services under Original Medicare alone.
Before delaying Part B
Delaying Part B without qualifying coverage can lead to a late-enrollment penalty or a gap in coverage. Employer coverage rules can vary, so confirm your timing with Social Security, Medicare.gov, or a licensed insurance agent before making a change.
Ready for your next step?
Put what you learned into practice.
Start with your ZIP code to review plans available in your area, or ask for help from a licensed insurance agent.
Primary sources
- Get started with Medicare — Medicare.gov
- What Medicare costs — Medicare.gov
- Sign up for Medicare — Social Security Administration