Under Medicare, which part generally covers outpatient physician services, including surgeon fees?

• A. Part A
• B. Part B
• C. Part C
• D. Part D

Answer: (B)

This tests how Medicare benefits are allocated by part, focusing on which part pays for outpatient physician services, including surgeon fees. Medicare Part B is the coverage for outpatient medical services, such as visits by physicians and surgeons in office or outpatient surgery settings. It covers medically necessary services from physicians and other eligible providers in these outpatient settings, along with related services like some lab tests and durable medical equipment.

In contrast, Part A is hospital insurance that pays for inpatient hospital stays (and some related skilled nursing, hospice, and home health services). Part C, Medicare Advantage, refers to private plans that bundle Part A and Part B benefits (and often additional coverage). Part D covers prescription drugs. So outpatient physician services, including surgeon fees, are generally covered under Part B.