Patients can choose to enroll in Part B, but are not required to do so. About 93 percent of Medicare beneficiaries are enrolled in the Part B program.1 Part B covers physician services, including physician-administered drugs, hospital outpatient care, laboratory services, durable medical equipment, and certain prescription drugs, such as immunosuppressants, for patients who meet specific criteria. Part B also covers preventive services such as Pap tests, flu shots, and prostate cancer screenings.
| 2009 Part B Patient Expenses2 | ||
| Premium | Deductible | Co-insurance |
|---|---|---|
|
Varies depending on patient income. $96.40 if income is less than $85,000 for individual or $170,000 for a couple $134.90 to $308.30 per month for higher incomes |
$135 per year | 20% |
1. Medicare Benefit Policy Manual Chapter 15 - Covered Medical and Other Health Services; section 50
2. http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MedicareEnrpts/
