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Sunday, 23 April 2017

What You Can And Can't Expect From Medicare Part B Coverage

By Brenda Olson


There are certain benefits that come with being a senior citizen. If you have paid into Social Security through work or by making quarterly payments, you are entitled to a monthly sum deposited directly into your bank account or sent to you in the mail. You will also receive health insurance benefits when you turn sixty-five. Many seniors think these benefits will cover the cost of any medical expense they incur, but they are wrong. Medicare Part B coverage goes along with Part A and will pay a percentage of some expenses, but not others.

Parts A and B are different. A will cover your expenses when you are admitted into a hospital, nursing home, or skilled care facility. It may also cover home health care and hospice. What is actually covered depends on the individual's circumstances and situation. If you have questions about A, you should contact your local Social Security office for more information.

Plan B is not free, but it is much less expensive than a regular health insurance plan. You are not required to buy this insurance, but if you do, Social Security will deduct the cost, approximately one hundred five dollars a month, out of the funds it sends you every month. The insurance does not pay one hundred percent of your expenses. It will pay up to eighty percent of approved charges once you have met your deductible.

This insurance covers doctor's visits, blood work, hospital tests, scans, and emergency room visits. It will pay for ambulance service, if you need it. When you sign up, you may be entitled to a wellness physical, assuming your doctor performs them. When you have a medical condition that requires equipment, such as a wheelchair, oxygen, or special bedroom or bathroom apparatus, the insurance provides it. Intensive care unit stays and some rehabilitation are also included in the plan.

You will be covered for certain mental health issues whether you are hospitalized or receive treatment on an outpatient basis. The insurance will pay for drug and alcohol treatment. It pays for medications that you receive in the hospital.

This insurance will not pay for dental visits, dentures or bridges. It won't cover the cost of hearing or eyesight screenings, nor will it pay for hearing aids or glasses. If you need foot care because of diabetes, you will have to pay for it yourself.

It does not cover cosmetic surgery, skin peels, or acupuncture. This insurance will not pay for long term custodial care. If you want your prescriptions covered, you can apply for separate insurance that covers them specifically.

This insurance can be very helpful for seniors with limited or fixed incomes. It becomes available at a time in their lives when health issues are more common and frequent.




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