Question 58

Medicare Part B covers physician and outpatient services.

Medicare Part B provides coverage for medically necessary services including physician visits and outpatient care, which are essential components of medical treatment.

A) Inpatient hospital services

Inpatient hospital services are covered under Medicare Part A, not Part B. Part A focuses on hospital stays and related services, while Part B specifically addresses outpatient services and physician visits.

B) Physician and outpatient services

This option is correct as Medicare Part B is designed to cover a wide range of outpatient services, including visits to doctors, preventive services, and necessary medical equipment, reflecting the purpose of this part of Medicare.

C) Prescription drugs

Prescription drugs are primarily covered under Medicare Part D, not Part B. While Part B may cover certain specific medications administered in outpatient settings, it does not cover the full range of prescription drugs.

D) Skilled-nursing facility custodial care

Skilled-nursing facility custodial care is not covered under Medicare Part B; this type of care is generally covered under Part A if it follows a qualifying hospital stay. Part B does not provide for custodial care services.

Conclusion

Medicare Part B is explicitly designed to cover physician and outpatient services, making Option B the only choice that accurately reflects the scope of coverage under this part of Medicare. All other options pertain to services covered under different parts of Medicare or are not covered at all.