What is a common deductible requirement for Medicare Part B?

Medicare Part B includes an annual deductible that beneficiaries must meet before the program begins to pay for covered services. This means that the individual is responsible for paying a specific amount out of pocket for healthcare services before Medicare starts to share the costs. In 2023, the standard Part B deductible was $226, which must be satisfied in a calendar year. Once this deductible is met, Medicare generally pays for 80% of the approved costs for services and the beneficiary is responsible for the remaining 20%.

Understanding this deductible is crucial, as it helps beneficiaries plan for their healthcare expenses and manage their budgets effectively. Additionally, it's worth noting that there are certain preventive services under Part B that may not require the deductible to be met, allowing beneficiaries to access some care without additional costs.