What is the primary purpose of Medicare Part B?

The primary purpose of Medicare Part B is to cover outpatient medical expenses. This includes a variety of services such as doctor visits, preventive care, outpatient hospital care, and some home health services. It serves to complement Medicare Part A, which primarily covers inpatient hospital stays. By focusing on outpatient services, Part B plays a crucial role in ensuring that beneficiaries have access to essential medical care that does not require hospitalization. This is especially important for managing chronic conditions and maintaining overall health, as many routine medical services take place outside of hospital settings.

In contrast, the other options present different aspects of Medicare or other types of coverage. Hospital insurance is covered under Part A, long-term care coverage typically is not provided by Medicare, and prescription drug coverage is handled through Medicare Part D. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why outpatient medical expenses are the focus of Medicare Part B.