What does the term 'beneficiary pays' include in regards to Medicare?

The term 'beneficiary pays' in the context of Medicare encompasses a range of out-of-pocket expenses that a beneficiary is responsible for. This includes premiums, deductibles, and co-insurance for non-covered services.

Medicare beneficiaries are responsible for paying the monthly premiums for Part B coverage, as well as any deductibles that must be met before Medicare begins to pay for services. Co-insurance refers to the percentage of costs that beneficiaries pay after they have met their deductible. Additionally, non-covered services might include certain types of medical care that are not reimbursed by Medicare, meaning beneficiaries have to pay these costs entirely out of their own pockets.

This broader interpretation captures various costs associated with Medicare coverage rather than limiting it to a single type of payment or scenario. By encompassing all these aspects, the correct answer reflects a more comprehensive understanding of the financial responsibilities that Medicare beneficiaries face.