Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which of the following services is not covered under Medicare Part B?

1. Persons age 65 years or older

2. Durable medical equipment

3. Mammograms annually starting at age 50

4. Anesthesiologist's services

The correct answer is: Anesthesiologist's services

Medicare Part B is designed to cover a range of outpatient services, including preventive services, physician visits, and certain types of medical equipment. The services covered under Medicare Part B encompass a wide array of healthcare needs, such as durable medical equipment (which can assist individuals in performing daily activities), preventative services like mammograms for eligible participants, and physician services, including those performed by anesthesiologists during outpatient surgical procedures. However, while anesthesiologist services may typically be linked to necessary surgical procedures, the distinction lies in the setting and the specific nature of the service provided. For instance, if the anesthesiologist's services occur in the context of an inpatient setting or as part of a procedure that may fall under hospital coverage rather than outpatient care, it may not be considered part of Medicare Part B coverage directly. It’s important to note that anesthesia care usually does get billed under the hospital service category, which can create confusion about whether it is covered under Part B or primarily through Medicare Part A. Understanding this distinction is key to navigating Medicare benefits and recognizing what is included under Parts A and B. The other choices clearly fall within the Medicare Part B service boundaries, making those options fully covered as preventive or necessary medical aids for those enrolled in