Health & Benefits

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

Some people who are under 65 years old, their surviving spouses, or their children may also be eligible for Medicare Part A and B. For example, if someone under 65 receives Social Security Disability A federal program that gives money to people who cannot work because of a disability Insurance (SSDI) or a disability A substantial impairment that functionally limits a person in carrying out major life activities, such as walking, lifting, seeing, or learning. pension Money paid to a person by an employer during retirement from the Railroad Retirement Board, they may qualify for Medicare.

Medicare Part A goes toward hospital expenses. Medicare Part B goes toward medical expenses. If you are enrolled in premium-free Part A, you are automatically enrolled in Part B. You may choose not to enroll in Part B because Part B requires payment of a monthly premium.    

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 $212,000 for a married couple), 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. 

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.