What Part B generally covers
Part B generally covers medically necessary outpatient services, physician visits, preventive services, durable medical equipment, and other covered outpatient care. After the yearly deductible, Part B typically pays 80% of the Medicare-approved amount for many services, and you pay 20%.
2026 premium and deductible
The standard Part B premium for 2026 is $202.90 per month. The annual Part B deductible is $283. Higher-income beneficiaries may pay an IRMAA surcharge. Confirm current amounts on Medicare.gov.
Enrollment timing matters
Delaying Part B can create a late enrollment penalty and a gap in coverage unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period — for example, because you or a spouse is still working and covered by a qualifying employer plan. People leaving employer coverage should look at SEP rules carefully.
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