What is the primary purpose of Medicare Part B?

The primary purpose of Medicare Part B is to cover preventive services and outpatient care. This component of Medicare provides essential assistance for services such as doctor visits, preventive screenings, diagnostic tests, and outpatient hospital care. By covering these areas, Part B plays a critical role in ensuring that beneficiaries have access to the necessary healthcare services that can prevent the progression of illnesses and maintain overall health.

Preventive services, such as vaccinations and routine check-ups, are covered without requiring a deductible or co-pay in most cases, which encourages beneficiaries to engage in proactive health management. Outpatient care, which includes services provided in a hospital or clinic that do not require an overnight stay, is also critical for managing various health conditions outside of a hospital setting.

The other options pertain to different aspects of Medicare or are covered by other parts of Medicare. For example, inpatient hospital expenses are addressed by Medicare Part A, while long-term rehabilitation services may fall under different programs or insurance plans. Prescription drug costs are typically covered under Medicare Part D. Therefore, the focus of Medicare Part B distinctly revolves around outpatient care and preventive services, making it the correct answer.