B
Coverage
Part B
Doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services.
Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, lab work, and durable medical equipment.
It has a standard monthly premium set each year. Higher-income enrollees pay more (see IRMAA).
Key points
- Standard monthly premium, plus an annual deductible.
- After the deductible, you generally pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount.
- Delaying Part B without qualifying coverage triggers a lifetime penalty.
- Preventive services (annual wellness visit, screenings) are often $0.
Common questions
Next steps
Related topics
Educational only. This information is not personalized advice. For your specific situation, verify at Medicare.gov or speak with a licensed Medicare professional.