Insurance Read Time: 2 min

What Medicare Part B Covers

Medicare Part B provides outpatient/medical coverage. The list below provides a summary of Part B-covered services and coverage rules:

  • Provider services: Medically necessary services you receive from a licensed health professional.
  • Durable medical equipment (DME): This is equipment that serves a medical purpose, is able to withstand repeated use, and is appropriate for use in the home. Examples include walkers, wheelchairs, and oxygen tanks. You may purchase or rent DME from a Medicare-approved supplier after your provider certifies you need it.
  • Home health services: Services covered if you are homebound and need skilled nursing or therapy care.
  • Ambulance services: This is emergency transportation, typically to and from hospitals. Coverage for non-emergency ambulance/ambulette transportation is limited to situations in which there is no safe alternative transportation available, and where the transportation is medically necessary.
  • Preventive services: These are screenings and counseling intended to prevent illness, detect conditions, and keep you healthy. In most cases, preventive care is covered by Medicare with no coinsurance.
  • Therapy services: These are outpatient physical, speech, and occupational therapy services provided by a Medicare-certified therapist.
  • Mental health services.
  • X-rays and lab tests.
  • Chiropractic care when manipulation of the spine is medically necessary to fix a subluxation of the spine (when one or more of the bones of the spine move out of position).
  • Select prescription drugs, including immunosuppressant drugs, some anti-cancer drugs, some anti-emetic drugs, some dialysis drugs, and drugs that are typically administered by a physician.

This list includes commonly covered services and items, but it is not a complete list. Keep in mind that Medicare does not usually pay the full cost of your care, and you will likely be responsible for some portion of the cost-sharing (deductibles, coinsurances, copayments) for Medicare-covered services.

© Medicare Rights Center. Used with permission.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG, LLC, is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

Have A Question About This Topic?

Thank you! Oops!

Related Content

Prescription Drug Benefits Under Medicare (Part D)

Prescription Drug Benefits Under Medicare (Part D)

Do you need to enroll in Medicare Part D? Read this article to learn more about whether you need this coverage

Assess Life Insurance Needs

Assess Life Insurance Needs

How to help determine life insurance needs to provide for your family after you pass away.

Long-Term-Care Protection Strategies

Long-Term-Care Protection Strategies

The chances of needing long-term care, its cost, and strategies for covering that cost.