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Medicare Insurance
How much is Medicare Part B?
Many retirees are faced with the challenges of paying for healthcare even though Medicare will provide a lot of help. It does take a lot of effort to figure out the health care coverage alphabet soup descriptions and purposes. Medicare Part B is a vital component for retirees receiving their much-needed everyday healthcare. To help answer some frequently asked questions by older Americans regarding the program, below are some key Medicare Part B provisions and how you will be able to use it for covering expenses like doctor visits and additional outpatient treatments.
Medicare Part B cost? How much?
Part B Medicare health insurance for medical service coverage will require participants to pay a monthly premium. In 2018, $134 per month is the amount paid by most of the participants. Approximately one fourth of all Medicare beneficiaries qualify for lower amounts because of unusually lower cost of living increases over the last few years in their Social Security payments. A provision called “hold-harmless” found under Medicare and Social Security will limit premium increases for Medicare. This limit is based on the amount a participants Social Security check goes up. Most will see their benefit amount catch up to the Medicare premium increases in time for the 2018 cost of living increases will take effect come January. For those who don’t they can get Part B coverage for a discounted premium.
However, depending on your annual income you may be required to pay a higher premium for Medicare Part B health insurance due to a means test. Premiums may be as high as $428.60 each month.
| individuals incomes: | Joint filers income: | Total monthly premium for 2018: |
| $85,000 to $107,000 | $170,000 to $214,000 | $187.50 |
| $107,000 to $133,500 | $214,000 to $267,000 | $267.90 |
| $133,500 to $160,000 | $267,000 to $320,000 | $348.30 |
| Over $160,000 | Over $320,000 | $428.60 |
Source: Medicare
Deductibles and coinsurance payment amounts will have to be paid in addition to the standard premium payments. Part B has a deductible of $183 each year. This amount is an out of pocket expense that you are responsible for prior to Medicare providing you with your health coverage. After this, Medicare will typically cover most over the services Part B covers; up to 80% which will leave a balance of 20% for you to pay. Certain Part B preventive services are covered for 100% of the entire cost.
Medicare Part B – What is covered?
With Medicare Part B health insurance coverage, it is key to note any treatments and services must be medically necessary in the treatment of a disease or a medical condition. Any services needed for diagnosing conditions are also eligible along with treatments for curing problems or prevention of illness form occurring and detecting early onset of any potential medical problems. Visiting the doctor is one of the most common uses of Medicare Part B for beneficiaries. Medical diagnostic tests are a typical use of Part B and its charges. A wide range of service items which can range form clinical research, ambulance services, mental health, durable medical equipment as well as additional opinions for any surgical operations.
Part B will not cover everything. Things like dentures a most other dental care, eye examinations which are related to prescribing glasses or any contact lenses. Also, typically not provided are hearing aid examinations.
Receive the healthcare needed.
Medicare Part B health insurance will give retirees coverage needed with a full range of services necessary and available to those participating. The services come at a cost, so it is critical for you to understand what exactly you have to pay for and avoid any surprises which can be costly during retirement.
