Medicare can feel like a maze, but understanding your benefits—especially those in Part B—can lead to better health, peace of mind, and savings. Whether you're newly eligible or have been enrolled for years, 2026 brings important updates to Medicare Part B that you should know about. Let’s break them down in simple terms so you can get the most from your coverage.

What Is Medicare Part B?

Medicare Part B helps cover your outpatient medical care—doctor visits, lab work, X-rays, durable medical equipment, outpatient surgeries, mental health care, and preventive services. If it doesn't require an overnight hospital stay, there's a good chance it's covered under Part B.

Think of Part B as your go-to for everyday health needs.

What’s Covered Under Part B?

Here's a quick look at common services covered under Part B:

  • Annual Wellness Visits
  • Vaccines (flu, pneumonia, COVID-19, hepatitis B)
  • Screenings for cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and more
  • Mental health services, including therapy and substance use disorder treatment
  • Telehealth visits, including from your home in many cases
  • Durable Medical Equipment (walkers, wheelchairs, home oxygen)
  • Home health care, when ordered by a doctor
  • Outpatient surgeries and emergency room visits that don’t result in hospital admission

2026 Costs for Medicare Part B

Medicare Part B costs have increased slightly for 2026:

  • Monthly Premium: $202.90
  • Annual Deductible: $283
  • Coinsurance: Usually 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after you meet your deductible 

If your income is above certain levels, you may pay more each month through an Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). On the other hand, if you're on a fixed or low income, programs like Medicare Savings Programs may help pay your Part B premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

Preventive Services Are Free

One of the best perks of Part B is that many preventive services are free when you visit a provider who accepts Medicare assignment. This includes:

  • Annual Wellness Visit
  • Cancer Screenings (colorectal, mammogram, prostate)
  • Diabetes and heart disease screenings
  • Depression screening
  • Flu and COVID-19 vaccines

You won’t pay a deductible or coinsurance for these services. They're covered 100%—a great reason to use them every year! Learn more about what preventive screenings are free (Medicare.gov).

Part A vs. Part B: A Quick Reminder

It’s easy to mix up the parts. Here’s the difference:

  • Part A = inpatient hospital stays, hospice, and skilled nursing
  • Part B = outpatient services and doctor care

If you're observed overnight in a hospital but not admitted, that’s billed under Part B, not Part A. Always ask about your status if you're not sure.

Tips to Maximize Part B

  • Schedule your free Annual Wellness Visit each year
  • Take advantage of all preventive services—they're free and valuable
  • Use telehealth for check-ups, especially for mental health or chronic condition management
  • Choose Medicare-approved providers who accept assignment to avoid extra costs
  • Track your care and costs with a Medicare.gov account

Take control of your Medicare benefits this year. Start by scheduling your free Annual Wellness Visit and reviewing your preventive care needs. Don’t leave benefits unused—your health is worth it.

Want to go deeper? Join a live Medicare class at GetSetUp’s Medicare Hub.