Medicare Part B is one of several coverage options available under the Medicare program. It is part of the "Original Medicare" program, along with Medicare Part A. Part B was designed to cover additional common medical needs that not available under Part A, such as doctor visits and outpatient health care.
Part B is optional, and most Americans must pay a premium for the coverage. In 2009, the standard premium for Part B coverage is $96.40 per month. Lower-income individuals may be eligible for subsidies to help them pay the standard premium. Individuals with incomes higher than $85,000 per year may be required to pay a higher premium.
Additionally, Part B enrollees will be required to pay more if they wait too long to enroll. The initial enrollment period for Part B begins 3 months before you become eligible for Medicare, and lasts for a total of 7 months. Beneficiaries who enroll late are subject to a monthly penalty added to their premium.
Medicare Part B requires enrollees to meet a deductible of $135 before benefits begin. Once the deductible is met, Part B will cover 80% of the negotiated rate for eligible healthcare services, while the enrollee is responsible for the other 20%.
