What Does Medicare Part B Cover?

Medicare Part B provides medical coverage for things like doctor appointments, laboratory testing, and emergency services. It also covers preventive services, meaning care designed to prevent illness or detect it early enough that treatment will work most efficiently.

We’ve provided a list of commonly used Part B services below.

Services Covered by Medicare Part B:

Provider services

Medically necessary care from doctors, nurse practitioners, and other licensed health professionals.

Durable medical equipment (DME)

Medically necessary equipment such as walkers, wheelchairs, oxygen tanks, and CPAP machines.

Home health services

Skilled nursing care or therapy for homebound patients, as prescribed by a doctor.

Ambulance services

Emergency ambulance transportation, typically to and from hospitals.

Therapy services

Outpatient physical, speech, and occupational therapy services.

X-rays and lab tests

Common laboratory testing such as blood tests, urinalysis, and imaging services.

Vaccines

Flu shots, pneumococcal shots, COVID-19 vaccines, and more.

Mental health services

Outpatient counseling, psychiatric evaluations, and medication management for conditions like anxiety and depression.

Chiropractic care

Only when spinal manipulation is medically necessary to correct subluxation (spinal misalignment).

Preventive Screening

Screenings for osteoporosis (bone density), diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers, based on eligibility guidelines.

Learn more: What Does Medicare Part A Cover?

Services NOT Covered by Medicare Part B:

• Routine physical exams
• Dental care including dentures
• Prescription drugs
• Eye exams & glasses
• Hearing aids
• Cosmetic surgery
• Nursing home care

All-In-One Coverage with Medicare Part C

As you can see, while Medicare Part B does provide coverage for many important health services, you still need additional coverage for things like prescription drugs, dental, vision, hearing, and more.

Many seniors choose a Medicare Part C, or Medicare Advantage plan, to provide all-in-one coverage. With Medicare Advantage, you get all of the services under Original Medicare as well as additional services, typically at no extra cost to you.

KelseyCare Advantage vs. Original Medicare

As you weigh your Medicare options, KelseyCare Advantage invites you to do a plan comparison using the chart here. You’ll quickly see that KelseyCare Advantage provides a comprehensive suite of services designed to meet your medical needs.

Our licensed local agents are available to answer any questions you might have about our coverage. Give us a call at 713-442-5646.