A Medicare beneficiary asks which Part covers outpatient physician visits and preventive services. Which Part should the agent identify?

Why this is the answer

Medicare has four distinct parts with non-overlapping primary roles. Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health—funded by payroll taxes; most beneficiaries pay no premium. Part B (Medical Insurance) covers physician services, outpatient care, durable medical equipment, lab tests, and most preventive services—requires a monthly premium (standard $202.90/month in 2026). Part C (Medicare Advantage) packages Parts A and B (and usually D) through private insurers approved by CMS. Part D provides prescription drug coverage through private plans. The question asks about outpatient physician visits and preventive services, which is squarely Part B. Per CMS Medicare & You 2026.