Health & Benefits

US citizens and many lawful permanent residents aged 65 years or older may qualify for Medicare Part A and B.

Some people who are under 65 years old may also qualify. For example, if someone under 65 years old receives Social Security Disability A federal program that gives money to people who cannot work because of a disability Insurance (SSDI) then they will qualify for Medicare after 24 months on SSDI.  A person with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD) also qualifies for Medicare.

Medicare Part A pays inpatient hospital expenses. Medicare Part B goes toward medical expenses like doctor’s visits or durable medical equipment, such as wheelchairs and oxygen tanks. Most people qualify for premium-free Part A.  While enrollment is automatic, it is good to double-check that you’ve been enrolled. Part B requires payment of a monthly premium which is based on your income from your tax return two years prior (i.e. 2025 premiums Money that must be paid every month, such as for health insurance are based on 2023 tax returns).   

Premiums

Everyone enrolled in Part B must pay a premium. This includes people who do not have to pay a premium for Part A.

For 2025, the Part B premium is $185, while the annual deductible is $257. If your income is more than $106,000, or more than $212,000 if you are married and file joint taxes, your Part B premium will cost more.

Services covered

Medicare Part B covers a wide range of medical services. Specific coverage is decided by federal and state laws, national coverage decisions, and coverage decisions by companies in each state. Covered medical services may include medically necessary and preventative services, such as screenings for:

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm,
• Alcohol misuse,
• Cardiovascular disease,
• Cervical and vaginal cancer,
• Depression,
• Diabetes,
• Flu shots,
• Glaucoma testing, and
• Lung cancer screening. 

The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issues a handbook called Medicare & You that contains a summary of covered services. To confirm coverage for a health condition, ask your healthcare provider or visit the Medicare website. 

Generally, you pay 20% of the Medicare approved cost of a service.  However, there are some preventative services and yearly visits that may be provided at no costs. 

Preventative services

Many preventive services will be provided at no cost. You can enjoy these free benefits even if you have not covered the deductible.

Wellness visits

You can get a preventive wellness visit after you've been on Medicare Part B for over a year. These visits provide only an overview of your health and medical risk factors. They focus on prevention and are a baseline for future care.