Medicare Part B – Medical Insurance
Medicare Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical supplies. The standard 2026 premium is $202.90/month.
What Does Part B Cover?
- Doctor visits (including outpatient services)
- Preventive services (flu shots, cancer screenings, annual wellness visits)
- Emergency ambulance services
- Durable medical equipment (wheelchairs, walkers, oxygen equipment)
- Mental health services (outpatient)
- Laboratory tests and X-rays
- Some outpatient prescription drugs (administered by a healthcare provider)
- Some skilled nursing care
2026 Part B Costs
Standard Monthly Premium
$202.90
Higher-income beneficiaries pay more (IRMAA)
Annual Deductible
$283
Was $257 in 2025
Coinsurance
20%
Of Medicare-approved amount after deductible
If your income is above certain thresholds, you may pay an Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) in addition to the standard premium. See the FAQ page for IRMAA tables.
Late Enrollment Penalty
If you don't sign up for Part B when you're first eligible and don't have other creditable coverage, you may face a 10% penalty for each 12-month period you could have had Part B but didn't enroll. This penalty is added to your monthly premium for as long as you have Part B.
Excess Charges
Some doctors ("non-participating" providers) may charge up to 15% more than the Medicare-approved amount. This extra amount — called an "excess charge" — is your responsibility to pay. A Medicare Supplement plan with a Part B excess charges rider can cover this.