You are also allowed, once within each period, to move from one hospice program to another. This part of Medicare partially covers expenses for doctors' services, diagnostic tests, and durable medical equipment. Part B concerns itself mainly with doctors' services and certain other related services and supplies, such as those you might use as a hospital outpatient. Medicare will reimburse these providers 80 percent of the approved amount, but you are responsible for the remaining 20 percent. It is always a good idea to ask providers whether they will take assignment because it saves you money.
Some states have stricter limits on physician charges.
In all cases, doctors and other providers are legally required to file your claim with Medicare and generally have up to one year to do so. The telephone number for the Medicare carrier in your state can be found in The Medicare Handbook, or the Guide to Health Insurance for People with Medicare , available at any Social Security office. If you can't, you should carefully weigh the alternative of going to another doctor. The systems differ by how the benefits are delivered, how and when payment is made, and how much you will be required to pay. You can choose any licensed doctor and use the services of any hospital and health care provider certified by Medicare.