Medicare Part B covers diagnostic tests like CT scans, MRIs, EKGs, and X-rays when your doctor or health care provider orders them as part of treating a medical problem. Medicare also covers clinical diagnostic laboratory services provided by certified laboratories enrolled in Medicare. Diagnostic tests and lab services are done to help your doctor diagnose or rule out a suspected illness or condition.
Medicare doesn’t cover most routine screening tests, like checking your hearing. Medicare covers some preventive tests and screenings to help prevent, find, or manage a medical problem.
In 2010 YOU pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for covered diagnostic tests and X-rays done in a doctor’s office or independent testing facility. You pay a copayment for diagnostic tests and X-rays in the hospital outpatient setting. You pay $0 for Medicare-covered lab services.
