Medicare Premiums Remain Steady

Week of November 10, 2008

For the first time since 2000, out-of-pocket costs for doctor's visits, outpatient services, medical equipment and other services covered under Medicare's Part B Premiums will not increase in 2009. The outpatient services premium will stay at $96.40 per month, and the one-time Part B deductible will also stay flat at $135 per year. Out-of-pocket premiums for hospital visits and nursing homes will rise, but most beneficiaries do not pay premiums for hospital visits. For more information, read the article.