Understanding the difference between Medicare A and B is a bit challenging. You might assume that once you reach a certain age, all of your health expenses are covered.

Unfortunately, that’s not true. Not only that, but Medicare isn’t one type of coverage. If you’re asking yourself, “What is the difference between Part A and Part B of Medicare?”, just keep reading.

The Parts of Medicare: Part A

Medicare part A is defined as hospital insurance. It covers inpatient hospital stays, hospice care, skilled nursing facilities, and partial home health services. The difference between Medicare A and B is that most people with part A don’t pay a monthly premium.

Whether you pay a premium or not is determined by the number of years and quarters you worked, along with the taxes that you paid out.

For instance, if you worked a minimum of 10 years which is equivalent to 40 quarters, and you paid taxes, you won’t have a premium. But let’s say you worked between 30 and 40 quarters, then your monthly premium will be roughly $250 per month.

The Parts of Medicare: Part B

Part B of Medicare is essentially health insurance. It covers doctor’s visits and other medical care services outside of the hospital.

Under Part B, you’ll likely have a 20% cost of all Medicare-approved services and you could also have a deductible. The standard Part B premium is about $140.

However, if your income is under a certain amount, you may have a more expensive Part B premium. If you’re on Social Security, that amount is usually deducted from your income.

What Is the Difference Between Part A and Part B of Medicare?

The primary Medicare A and B difference is the medical services that each one covers.

Part A Coverage:

  • Home Health Services for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nursing care
  • Hospital care for long-term stays and inpatient rehabilitation
  • Nursing home care for custodial care, plus additional services
  • Skilled nursing facility care that includes supplies, injections, and meals

Part B Coverage:

  • Doctor’s visits for routine medical care
  • Lab tests and blood work
  • Outpatient surgery for same-day procedures
  • Mental and substance abuse treatment programs
  • Durable medical equipment covered by Medicare, such as walkers, wheelchairs, or CPAP machines
  • Ambulance services for emergency rides to the hospital

Medical services not covered by Part A and B of Medicare:

  • Cosmetic Surgery
  • Dental Care
  • Acupuncture
  • Long-term nursing home care over 100 days
  • Hearing Aids
  • Medical services outside of the United States

Get the Health Coverage You Need

As you can see, Medicare Part A and B are quite different. If you have a serious condition, or you’d like health coverage for routine medical care, it’s wise to get Part B.

There are several health insurance options specifically designed for people on Medicare. After all, you never know when you might need the additional coverage.

Did this article answer your question of “What is the difference between Part A and Part B of Medicare?

If so, check out the rest of our blog posts. We cover an array of topics that we’re sure you’ll enjoy!