Which part of Medicare provides coverage for outpatient services?

Medicare Part B is specifically designed to cover outpatient services, which include a variety of healthcare services that do not require an overnight stay in a hospital. This encompasses physician services, preventive care, diagnostic tests, and some outpatient therapy services.

Part B is essential for beneficiaries who need these services because it helps reduce the out-of-pocket costs associated with receiving outpatient care. It also includes coverage for durable medical equipment, which is vital for many patients who require tools to manage their health conditions in a home setting.

In contrast, Medicare Part A primarily covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, bundles some of the benefits of Parts A and B, sometimes with additional benefits, but it does not directly provide outpatient coverage as a standalone option. Medicare Part D focuses on prescription drug coverage, which is separate from outpatient services provided under Part B.