Which Medicare part covers physician services and outpatient hospital services?

Medicare Part B is specifically designed to cover physician services and outpatient hospital services. This part of Medicare provides coverage for a range of outpatient care, which includes routine doctor visits, preventative services, diagnostic tests, and vaccinations. It also covers outpatient hospital services, which are essential for beneficiaries who require non-inpatient care.

Understanding Medicare's structure is crucial for effective patient management and education. For example, unlike Part A, which primarily covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facilities, and some home health care, Part B focuses on services provided in an outpatient setting. This distinction is important for healthcare providers to ensure appropriate billing and patient access to necessary services.

Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is not a standalone part but rather a combination plan that includes benefits from both Part A and Part B and often additional services. Part D is focused on providing prescription drug coverage. Therefore, for coverage related to physician services and outpatient care, Part B is the applicable choice.