For those who are seeking more insurance information, Medicare is the federal health insurance program created specifically for seniors, 65 years of age and older, as well as certain younger people with disabilities and those suffering from End-Stage Renal Disease. Given the sensitive nature of the patients the plan covers, it is of the utmost importance to always ensure this coverage is sufficient and that it covers all necessities for the elderly and ill individuals who subscribe to this plan. Although there are four distinct types of coverage under the Medicare banner (Medicare Part A-Medicare Part D), the purpose of this post is to go over the coverage information for Medicare Part B.
Medicare Costs
Before we delve into what Medicare Part B covers, we must first understand that Medicare also carries its share of costs. Firstly, the monthly premium is $134. Although this is considered fairly inexpensive, one must also keep in mind that patients are often on fixed/ limited incomes. Moreover, despite this being the official cost, this is not what the average beneficiary is responsible for paying. In fact, given that the vast majority of Medicare recipients are elderly (70 percent), most premiums are paid directly from the patient’s Social Security benefits. Furthermore, given a specific rule addressing the correlation between Medicare premiums with Social Security cost-of-living adjustments, premiums for this demographic tend to go up more slowly than the others. That said, on average, they are paying $109 monthly.
On the flip side, overall, the remaining 30 percent pay the entire $134 monthly premium. This percentage includes those who are new to Medicare beneficiaries as well as those who have not yet filed for Social Security. Furthermore, being impoverished or unemployed is not the only way in which your income can affect your eligibility and/or premiums. Those who make too much are also expected to pay higher premiums. Based on the patient’s modified adjusted gross income from two years ago, as well as your tax filing status. Those who make over $85,000 have to pay an increased premium.
Medicare Part B Coverage
Now that we’ve gone over the costs of Medicare, let’s look into what it covers. As mentioned, Medicare Part B supplies medical insurance to the elderly as well as a variety of others. Covering a variety of medical supplies and necessities, Medicare part B covers outpatient visits to doctor’s offices, clinics, hospitals, as well as an array of other medical facilities. Furthermore, Medicare part B also covers an array of preventative services as a means of preventing illness and/or early detection. Although there are now four distinct categories of Medicare, Medicare Part A and B are considered Original Medicare.
Medicare Part B covers the following:
Doctor visits- Visit your doctor’s office for things such as physical exams, regular check-ups, for referrals, and other necessary medical actions. Your Medicare plan will cover the majority of the services needed as well as subsequent materials such as medications and other paraphernalia. For instance, the Gonzaba Medical Group offers quality healthcare to elderly patients in the San Antonio area.
Laboratory tests and X-rays- In addition, doctor’s visits are but one aspect of maintaining one’s physical health. Laboratory testing is commonly recommended for the elderly as well as those with various health issues as their health is already considered to be compromised in some way, having X-rays and other laboratory testing options can be some of the best methods of preventing illnesses and/or detecting them early.
Emergency ambulance services- Although this is highly uncommon, the costs associated with one ride in an ambulance can be astronomical and unfortunately, if you are in need of an ambulance ride, you probably are not in the position to negotiate prices. Fortunately, Medicare part B will cover the vast majority of these costs.
Mental health services – Although it is thought to be separate from physical health, mental health is an intricate part of your overall well-being. Moreover, given that the elderly are especially prone to Alzheimer’s, dementia and other types of mental health issues, offering patients mental health services is a vital element of Medicare.
Durable medical equipment – Depending on which types of illnesses or ailments a patient may have; medical equipment is a term that can refer to an array of materials. For instance, those who suffer from diabetes may need a steady supply of needles to test their glucose levels. On the flip side, those with mobility issues may need equipment such as canes, wheelchairs, scooters and the like.
Preventive services (Pap tests, flu shots, and screenings) – Moreover, as we age, preventative medicine begins to take center stage. Rather than waiting for a problem to emerge, healthcare professionals will recommend an array of test and other procedures to prevent their health from drastically deteriorating.
Rehabilitative services (physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology services) – Lastly, in the unfortunate event that a patient experiences a serious medical issue, rehabilitation services are provided to help them regain their health as well as their sense of autonomy. Major accidents, strokes, and seizures, as well as other conditions, often act as the catalyst for a poor bill of health. Fortunately, rehabilitation services are offered under Medicare part B.
Although it provides high-quality coverage, it is still up to every patient to find a service provider they can trust. For seniors seeking high-quality medical care in San Antonio, the Gonzaba Medical Group is a great practice to receive sound medical care and advice.