What type of insurance is Medicare Part B?

Medicare Part B is classified as Supplementary Medical Insurance because it provides coverage for outpatient medical services, preventive care, and certain medically necessary services that are not covered by Medicare Part A, which primarily addresses inpatient hospital stays. This includes a range of healthcare services like doctor visits, diagnostic tests, and some preventive services such as vaccinations and screenings.

The characterization of Medicare Part B as supplementary highlights its role in augmenting the basic hospital insurance provided under Part A, ensuring that beneficiaries have broader access to necessary healthcare services. Supplementary Medical Insurance is designed to help cover additional medical expenses that may arise outside of the inpatient setting, thereby providing more comprehensive health coverage for seniors and certain disabled individuals.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the nature of Medicare Part B. Disability insurance typically provides income support for individuals unable to work due to illness or injury. Accident insurance specifically covers injuries resulting from accidents, while life insurance pertains to the financial protection offered to beneficiaries upon the policyholder's death. Thus, these categories are distinct from the supplementary role that Medicare Part B fulfills in the healthcare landscape.