Medicare Part B Defined

Medicare Part B is a premium-based program that can pay for certain services. To qualify, a person must be 65 years old and be eligible for Social Security benefits. In most cases, you must be a U.S. resident. However, exceptions can be made for those coming into the United States who have established permanent residence after living for 5 consecutive years after applying for the program. In some cases, you can qualify if you receive disability benefits under Social Security or SSI.

To be enrolled, you must receive Social Security benefits for a minimum of 4 months and receive Medicare Part A. Part B is voluntary, but it requires a monthly premium to stay active. Monthly premiums are income-based and require consistent payment to remain eligible.

Part B offers free services to those who qualify. The secret is to find a doctor or specialist who is willing to participate in the program. Some doctors only accept payments from private insurers, but others will accept Part B coverage. A list of doctors can be found on Medicare's official site. You can search by specialty and location.

How Much Does Part B Cost?

The current premium for Medicare Part B is $164.90 per month, but it is subjected to change at any time. This change could happen as an individual's monthly income fluctuates. The more you make, the more you might need to pay for your coverage.

Payment works like this: Your monthly premium is automatically deducted from your Social Security, so you don't need to worry about sending it in by mail. Plus, you can opt for a supplemental plan if you decide you need additional coverage.

What Does Part B Cover?

Medicare Part B covers two types of services:

Part B covers a broad range of vital services, from emergency ambulatory care to routine blood work. Additional services covered by Part B include:

However, Part B will not cover for other services. Eye exams, glasses, routine dental care, dentures, and routine physicals must be paid for by you or another provider. Other services such as routine foot care and cosmetic surgery are also excluded from Part B coverage.

What Factors Impact Coverage?

Part B benefits are influenced by three major factors:

For example, federal and state laws may decide which services to keep, what to add, and what should be cut. Private claims processors may reject coverage under Part B if it's been determined that a specific treatment or service isn't medically necessary, as in the case of routine dental and eye care.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are mental health services covered under Part B?

Part B covers mental health services. Inpatient coverage includes doctor's services during your stay. Treatments from other providers are also eligible. Plus, you pay nothing for your first 60 days. However, an extended stay of 61-90 days requires a copayment of $400 per day. After 90 days, an $800 copayment is required, and anything beyond requires full expenses paid out of pocket.

Outpatient mental health services covered by Part B include professionally led individual and group psychotherapy, diagnostic testing, and limited prescription coverage as allowed by state law. Annual wellness checkups are also included in the plan.

2. What about adaptive or medical equipment?

Adaptive or durable medical equipment (DME) is any type of device that improves quality of life for those who live with a chronic or preexisting condition. All supplies must be prescribed by your doctor for home use.

Your Part B plan should accept claims for any adaptive equipment you may need. Canes, lifts, wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers are included with your Part B benefits. Glucose monitors, nebulizer treatment supplies, and glucose test strips also make the list. Your doctor and medical supply company must be registered under Medicare for you to qualify.

3. What are the guidelines for Medicare deductibles?

Costs that you pay before services are covered by insurance are known as deductibles. Medicare beneficiaries who receive Part B may be billed if they fail to meet an annual deductible. Hospital claims under Part A may also be denied until the deductible is paid in full.

4. If I need transportation to an appointment, will my plan pay for it?

If you need help making it to appointments or treatment clinics, Part B may be able to help. Transportation by van, bus, or taxi must be ordered by your doctor and can only be used for medical appointments. Certain legal restrictions may apply.

5. Do my Part B benefits include clinical trials and research studies?

New treatments and medications that are being introduced require clinical research participation for testing. Each trial asks participants to join to help test new drugs or therapies for safety, efficacy, and efficiency. Hospital stay is usually required for observation.

Part B may cover some of the costs for diagnostic testing, medication, and other procedures. Overnight hospital stays should be covered under Part A, but if you don't qualify, you may want to look into a supplemental plan. Otherwise, get ready to pay for additional fees.

It is strongly advised that you check with your doctor before you embark on a clinical trial. Be wary of any risks involved, including anything that might interfere with any medication you're currently taking. Do some research on what the study entails and consider the pros and cons.

BOZEMAN —Later today, City of Bozeman Economic Development and Housing staff will provide an update to the Bozeman City Commission on their progress in implementing the Bozeman Community Housing Action adopted in 2019. Since this time, 1,774 new units of housing have entered the pipeline, including 592 income-restricted units and 11 affordable developments.

“Housing is top of mind for many in our community and understandably so given the rising costs,” David Fine, Economic Development Manager at the City of Bozeman, explained. “While more work is to be done in this space to increase affordability across the city, much has been done as well, and we continue to use every tool available to increase our number of affordable units.”

The Community Housing Action Plan uses a partnership framework to advance strategies addressing housing affordability. Within the plan, staff have prioritized the strategies where the City can create more units of long-term affordable housing.
 
In 2021, the Montana Legislature prohibited cities from requiring affordable units in new developments, a policy known as inclusionary zoning. As a result, the City innovated with financial and regulatory tools to incentivize affordability. This has resulted in a significant pipeline of projects and community housing units.

Staff will review substantial resources that Bozeman City Commission has dedicated to affordable housing, including increasing the Community Housing budget from $1.2 million in fiscal year 2023 to $3.5 million in fiscal year 2024, and granting $1 million to the Gallatin Housing Impact Fund at Neighborworks Montana, which leverages 9 private dollars for every 1 public dollar granted to the fund for community housing developments. Commission also approved $11.3 million in Tax Increment Financing (TIF) assistance to support the public infrastructure necessary for workforce housing projects.

Other changes include the city adopting new development codes to encourage affordability through density and infill, which makes it easier to build an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). Additionally, the city created density bonuses to incentivize affordable units in projects, and a new planned development zone (PDZ) process that encourages providing affordable housing in exchange for modifying development standards.

For more information on community housing, contact David Fine at dfine@bozeman.net.

BOZEMAN - Curious Creatures, a new, technical mountain bike apparel brand dedicated to empowering outdoor enthusiasts to embrace their true selves while exploring the world on two wheels is thrilled to announce their US launch. 

"With Curious Creatures, we're not just launching a brand; we're launching a community that celebrates authenticity, adventure and the joy of exploration,” says Natasha Woodworth, founder and owner, Curious Creatures. “Our goal is to empower riders to embrace who they are and experience the world in their own unique ways."

Curious Creatures reimagines mountain bike apparel by offering clothes that feel and look like clothes, not costumes, allowing riders to perform their best while staying connected to their own style and the natural world around them. “At Curious Creatures, we are not just another apparel brand; we are a community of like-minded individuals who believe in the power of exploration, self-expression, and respect for the environment,” says Woodworth. “Our mission is to inspire riders to break free from the confines of traditional, overbuilt mountain bike gear and reconnect with the essence of nature and adventure. We encourage our fellow riders to celebrate their quirks and embrace the magic of the unknown.”

Behind Curious Creatures is founder and designer Natasha Woodworth, a true Creature herself who brings a unique blend of creativity and technical expertise to the brand. Woodworth's journey began with a competitive ski racing career in Europe and for the US Ski Team. After finding her calling in design and fashion, Woodworth worked on New York Fashion Week runway shows and designed costumes for pop icon Lady Gaga and alongside Marc Jacobs. However, a deep-seated love for the outdoors and a desire to create functional, stylish apparel led Woodworth to move to Ventura, California and transition her focus to outdoor apparel and Advanced Concept design at Patagonia. After a decade on the coast, Woodworth settled down in Bozeman, Montana to be closer to the mountains and launch Curious Creatures. 

Woodworth’s fifteen years of design experience further honed her creative philosophy, emphasizing sustainability, quality, and product testing rooted in personal experiences. Now, as the founder of Curious Creatures, Woodworth brings her passion for adventure and design to the forefront, infusing each piece with a sense of humor, expression, and fun. "Design is more than aesthetics; it's about creating products that seamlessly merge performance and self-expression. At Curious Creatures, we're committed to pushing the boundaries of mountain bike apparel, ensuring riders feel comfortable, confident, and connected to nature." The first collection is focused on the needs of women with designs and styles crafted with women in mind first. There are also cross-over pieces that cater to men and as the line expands so will the options for all genders. 

The Curious Creatures logo tells the story of the brand's essence - an amalgamation of curiosity, exploration, and a touch of whimsy. Inspired by a transformative bikepacking trip, the logo incorporates elements that symbolize the brand's spirit - the letter "C," to represent the name, playful seeing googly eyes for creatures of the outdoors, the indelible imprint of bike tires, and a subtle nod to the natural world. “The brand’s credence in conscientious design, sustainability and craftsmanship are at the heart of everything we create from the logo and design to the fabric, fit and innovation,” says Woodworth. 

As a design-led company, Curious Creatures works with manufacturers that support innovation in renewable energy and positive treatment of workers. The company has partnered with a local Montana repair shop to ensure there is the ability to repair goods and keep them in use for as long as possible. To learn more about responsibility and ethics, visit https://wearecuriouscreatures.com/pages/responsibility. 

To view the lookbook, visit: https://wearecuriouscreatures.com/blogs/lookbooks/big-sky-look-book 

For more information about Curious Creatures, visit wearecuriouscreatures.com. 

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About Curious Creatures

Curious Creatures is a mountain bike apparel brand born out of Bozeman, Montana, and is founded on the principles of empowerment, exploration, and self-expression. Firmly committed to elevating industry benchmarks, the brand resonates through its emphasis on quality, sustainability, and unadulterated individual expression. For more information, visit wearecuriouscreatures.com.

HELENA – So far this year, FWP and its partners have inspected more than 86,000 watercraft for aquatic invasive species. Of those, 45 were mussel-fouled and more than 400 were found with aquatic weeds.
FWP and partner agencies, which include tribes, counties and conservation districts, operate more than 17 road-side watercraft inspection stations across the state. To find a watercraft inspection station or to learn more, go to fwp.mt.gov/conservation/aquatic-invasive-species or call the FWP Aquatic Invasive Species Bureau at 406-444-2440.

In the last few weeks, the following was detected:
• A ski boat recently purchased in Minnesota was intercepted with mussels at the Wibaux watercraft inspection station (operated by Garfield Conservation District). The boat was decontaminated, locked to the trailer and released to its final destination in Pend Oreille, Idaho. Idaho was notified to allow for follow-up.

• The Wibaux station intercepted a wakeboard boat that was recently purchased in Minnesota with mussels in the sea strainer. The boat was decontaminated, locked to the trailer and authorities at Lake Tahoe, its destination, were notified for follow-up.

• The Broadus inspection station (managed by the Powder River Conservation District) intercepted a recently purchased mussel fouled ski boat from Minnesota heading for Big Sky. Staff decontaminated the boat, locked it to the trailer and FWP staff followed up with the owner for a full decontamination.

No Eurasian watermilfoil (EWM) has been found in Beaver Lake near Whitefish this season following three comprehensive surveys. Another follow-up survey will be conducted in October.

As the boating season winds down, inspection stations will be closing. The St. Xavier and Sula stations are now closed. Other stations will be closing in the coming weeks.

BOZEMAN – Installation of electric vehicle charging stations on the Montana State University has begun, and officials say they will be ready for use by students, visitors, faculty and staff during the fall semester.

MSU’s first Level 2 EV charging stations were installed this summer on the west side of American Indian Hall and on the south side of Hyalite residence hall. Both are expected to be operational during the fall semester. A third station is slated for installation on the southwest corner of the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse parking lot later this year.

Kristin Blackler, director of MSU’s Office of Sustainability, said students are expected to be the heaviest users of the stations, followed by visitors. Requests from students and their parents for on-campus charging stations started coming in about three years ago and have only increased in number, Blackler said.

“Electric vehicle ownership in the community is increasing. We’re trying to prepare for that,” Blackler said. “I’m very excited to see what we learn, and we expect to use that information to build more of these in the right places around campus.”

Duke Elliott, resource conservation specialist with the Engineering and Utilities division of University Facilities Management, said the stations are dual-port units that can charge two vehicles at once, and they are compatible with most electric vehicles.

Elliott said many variables, including a vehicle’s maximum charge rate and battery capacity, influence how long it takes an electric vehicle battery to charge. Citing information from the U.S. Department of Transportation, he said Level 2 chargers can fully charge a vehicle battery in four to 10 hours, which is considerably faster than Level 1 chargers but slower than “fast” chargers commonly installed along heavy traffic corridors that can do the same job in 20 minutes to an hour.

MSU Parking Services said EV drivers will be able to access the stations on a first-come, first-served basis and will be charged $3 per hour to park, payable at the charging station.

Blackler and Elliott said several offices on campus, including University Facilities Management and Parking Services, participated in planning for the stations for about a year to ensure that access to the chargers is reasonable, equitable and meets people’s needs.

“We serve the public and also are stewards of public trust,” Elliott said. “Our approach with new technology is to move forward cautiously, test and then proceed.”

Blackler said university officials will closely monitor station usage and other factors to determine where to best locate additional chargers in the future. They also will assess whether there is a need to provide chargers for electric bikes.

“We are excited to do this for campus and especially excited to provide this service to the MSU community” Blackler said.

She added, “As a land-grant institution, MSU is committed to being a good steward of the resources we have available to us, and we strive to create a culture on campus that promotes sustainability and energy efficiency and pushes us toward achieving the three main goals in MSU's Sustainability Framework.”

The installation of chargers on campus also will advance MSU’s goal of achieving STARS Platinum by 2035ranking from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.

The five-paragraph essay stands as a cornerstone in academic writing. This format, while seemingly simple, is instrumental in delivering ideas clearly and efficiently. Its strategic design aids students in presenting their viewpoints methodically and persuasively. Throughout academic spheres, from high school classrooms to university lectures, this format reigns supreme due to its adaptability and clarity. Through this guide, we delve deeper into its anatomy, shedding light on the format's role in shaping compelling academic narratives and offering learners a structured pathway to articulate their insights effectively.

Understanding the Format

Navigating the structure of the five-paragraph essay can be likened to following a reliable blueprint that ensures a cohesive output.

The journey starts with the introduction paragraph, which should unfurl with a gripping Hook, perhaps a thought-provoking query or an astonishing revelation. Subsequently, the background information acts as a bridge, linking the hook to the broader context of the discussion. If weaving this together feels challenging, you can always trust Essaypro the best college essay writing service, to expertly craft your content. This introductory phase then culminates with the thesis statement, offering readers a clear snapshot of your core contention.

The meat of the essay resides in the three body paragraphs. Each of these segments should unfurl with a robust Topic Sentence, laying bare the paragraph's main thrust. Following this, the supporting details - be they factual data, illustrative examples, or pertinent quotes - fortify the central premise.

To ensure a seamless reading experience, employing smooth transitions is key. These bridges, whether they're phrases or sentences, help the reader traverse the landscape of your argument, making the journey intuitive and engaging.

Acting as the final bow, the conclusion paragraph encapsulates the essay's essence. Here, it's paramount to restate the thesis, but with a twist, offering a nuanced take on the initial assertion. A concise summary section acts as a refresher, jogging the reader's memory about the trio of core arguments previously explored. Rounding off the essay, a closing thoughts or reflection section can serve as a beacon, igniting contemplation or inspiring action in the reader, making sure the essay's impact lingers long after the last word.

Choosing a Topic

Initiating your essay journey begins with choosing the right topic. This selection must not only intrigue the writer but also resonate with potential readers. While a passionate topic can invigorate the writing process, it's crucial that the subject can be comfortably addressed within the five-paragraph structure. This ensures that the topic isn't overly expansive, making it cumbersome to discuss adequately, or too specific, which could leave you scrambling for material.

Once the topic is decided, an in-depth research phase becomes crucial. Amassing substantial information at this juncture paves the way for clarity and equips you with the robust data needed for a compelling narrative.

Drafting the Essay

The initial phase of the writing process is drafting. Before penning down your thoughts, it's beneficial to brainstorm and sketch out a plan. Organizing thoughts in this manner ensures a laser-focused and coherent essay.

At the heart of your piece is the thesis; ensure you dedicate time to craft one that's both clear and compelling. For your essay to truly shine, it needs to integrate concrete evidence effortlessly. Whether it's data points, relevant quotations, or poignant anecdotes, they should be rooted in credibility and buttress your main argument effectively. Always ensure that your narrative retains clarity and flows seamlessly, making your propositions easily digestible to the readers.

Editing and Revising

Once the initial draft is penned, it's time for the critical stages of editing and revision. Here, a keen eye for detail can transition your essay from merely good to truly exemplary. Commence with a thorough check for grammatical, punctuation, and spelling anomalies. Such oversights, no matter how minute, can undermine the potency of your narrative.

Move beyond the rudiments to ensure logical continuity and consistency in your arguments. During this refinement phase, external feedback is golden. Sharing your work with peers or mentors might offer a fresh lens, pinpointing areas for improvement. Bear in mind, producing exemplary content often involves revisiting and revising multiple times.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

On the surface, crafting a five-paragraph essay might appear simple. However, many pitfalls await the unwary writer. A frequent blunder is venturing into a topic that's either too expansive or unduly constricted. While the former risks a scattered narrative, the latter could leave you strapped for content.

If there's uncertainty regarding topic choice, best dissertation writing services can be a treasure trove of guidance. Additionally, it's paramount that every segment of your essay serves a clear function, propelling your argument forward. Be wary of redundancy; repeated points can dilute your essay's essence. And while personal insights provide flavor, it's paramount to anchor them with tangible evidence to ensure your essay remains robust and persuasive.

Conclusion

The seemingly humble five-paragraph essay stands as a bedrock for academic scribes. Its organized structure lays out a roadmap for logically and convincingly presenting arguments. Acquiring proficiency in this format empowers writers to articulate ideas effectively, sway their audience, and secure academic victories.

As with any craft, mastery is the offspring of consistent practice. While grasping its nuances is key, the real magic lies in its persistent application. So, view every essay assignment as a golden chance to refine your skills. With unwavering commitment, you won't just ace the five-paragraph essay but will also set the stage for tackling more intricate writing projects down the line.

On September 8, 2023 at 1:47pm Madison County Dispatch received a 911 call from a hunting party where an individual had been attacked by a grizzly bear while tracking a deer.  The caller indicated that one of the individuals in their party was in need of immediate medical treatment near Yellow Mule Trail, outside of Big Sky, MT.  Due to the location, Madison County requested help from Gallatin County.

Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue (GCSSAR) volunteers from the Big Sky Section and Heli Team, Montana Fish & Wildlife Law Enforcement Officers, US Forest Service Law Enforcement, Life Flight HelicopterTeam, and Gallatin County Sheriff’s Deputies, responded to the request for aid.  The GCSSAR team members along with law enforcement arrived on scene of the attack then quickly transported the patient to Life Flight Helicopter waiting at a nearby helicopter pad.  The patient ultimately was taken to Bozeman Health Deaconess Regional Medical Center for further evaluation.

Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer would like to remind hunters that having a plan for contingencies along with being able to call for aid is crucial in the backcountry.

The Yellow Mule Trails along with all access to Buck Ridge Trail have been closed by USFS Law Enforcement until further notice.  Please check with USFS for updates on the closure.

Photos courtesy of Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office.

What kind of car would be ideal for living in Montana?
Living in Montana offers a unique blend of rugged landscapes, unpredictable weather, and a rich outdoor lifestyle. As such, choosing the right vehicle becomes more than just a mode of transportation; it's a strategic decision that can significantly impact your daily life. From navigating snow-covered roads to exploring off-the-beaten-path trails, finding the ideal car for Montana living requires careful consideration of various factors. In this article, we'll explore the key features to look for in a vehicle that suits the Montana lifestyle.

What factors should be taken into account when you choose a car?
Weather Adaptability: Taming the Elements
Montana's weather can be a rollercoaster ride, from chilly winters to mild summers. An ideal car for Montana residents should be equipped to handle these diverse conditions. Look for features such as advanced climate control, heated seats, and efficient defrost systems to combat icy mornings.

All-Wheel Drive or Four-Wheel Drive: Conquering Unpredictable Terrains
Montana's rugged terrains and snowy roads demand the capabilities of all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). These systems provide better traction on slippery surfaces, making them essential for both daily commutes and weekend getaways to remote areas.

Ground Clearance: Navigating the Rough Roads
From gravel roads to potholes, Montana's infrastructure isn't always smooth sailing. Opt for a vehicle with higher ground clearance to easily tackle uneven surfaces, protecting your car's undercarriage from potential damage.

Fuel Efficiency: Tackling Long Distances
Montana's expansive landscapes mean longer drives between towns. Prioritize fuel-efficient options to save on gas costs during these journeys and contribute to environmentally friendly practices.

Heating and Cooling Systems: Surviving Extreme Temperatures
Montana's temperature extremes demand a car with reliable heating for winter and effective cooling for summer. Invest in a vehicle with advanced climate control systems to ensure year-round comfort.

Cargo Space: Accommodating Adventure Gear
Montana residents love their outdoor activities, from skiing to hiking. A car with ample cargo space can accommodate sports gear, camping equipment, and groceries, making it the perfect companion for your adventures.

Reliability: Weathering the Montana Elements
A dependable vehicle is crucial for navigating Montana's diverse landscapes and changing weather conditions. Prioritize brands and models known for their reliability and robust construction.

Safety Features: Secure Journeys
Montana's often challenging road conditions underscore the importance of safety features. Look for antilock brakes, stability control, and advanced driver-assistance systems to ensure a secure driving experience.

Towing Capability: Hauling Possibilities
Montana's outdoor lifestyle may involve towing trailers, boats, or campers. Choose a car with adequate towing capacity to explore the state's natural beauty to the fullest.

Size and Maneuverability: Balancing Space and Practicality
Finding the right balance between size and maneuverability is essential, especially if you'll be driving through both urban and rural areas. A versatile vehicle can navigate tight city streets and provide the space needed for highway journeys.

While these factors provide a comprehensive guide, remember that personal preferences also play a role in choosing the right car for Montana living. Keep in mind your comfort, style preferences, and any additional features that enhance your driving experience.

Cars fit for Montana
Affording the ideal car for your Montana needs shouldn't break the bank. Opting for smaller vehicles, used options, or lesser-known brands can ease your monthly car payments. Here are some picks that ace both the roads and your budget.

Subaru Impreza: The Montana Favorite
Subaru's popularity in Montana isn't without reason. The compact Impreza is armed with all-wheel drive (AWD), ready for backroads and snowy terrains. It won't drain your wallet either, coming in under $20,000 for a new model. A smart choice for budget-friendly AWD.

Ford Ranger: Affordable Trucking
Trucks don't always spell budget-friendly, but the Ford Ranger is an exception. Starting just under $25,000 new, it's a practical choice for hauling gear in all seasons without feeling like you're navigating a mammoth.

Toyota Prius AWD-e: Savings and Efficiency
Though a new Toyota Prius might touch $25,000, the savings are real at the pump, with an impressive average of 50 mpg. The new AWD model makes conquering Montana's roads a breeze, from town to summit

Honda HR-V: Crossover Charm
Starting at under $22,000 for a new model, the Honda HR-V offers the best of both worlds. With SUV-like resilience and a sporty aesthetic, it's designed to fit your adventurous lifestyle, from car camping to conquering snowy trails.

Hyundai Kona SE: Budget-Friendly SUV
At around $20,000 for the base model, the Hyundai Kona SE combines affordability and high-tech features. This SUV accommodates both style and practicality, perfect for packing in the family, cooler, and camping essentials.

Toyota Tacoma: Built for Adventure
For those on the budget-friendly side, the Toyota Tacoma is a prime choice. The SR model starts above $26,000, catering to Montana's endless weekends with its petite frame and tough performance on dirt roads.

Affordability shouldn't compromise quality, especially when it comes to your Montana adventures. From Subaru's AWD to the practicality of Ford's Ranger, these options promise a blend of performance and cost-effectiveness. Choose wisely, and hit Montana's roads without straining your budget. You can also find a suitable car at online car auctions.

Conclusion
Selecting a car to thrive in Montana requires careful consideration of the state's unique demands. From weather adaptability to safety features, every aspect should contribute to a vehicle that complements your lifestyle. Whether you're embarking on a road trip, exploring hidden trails, or navigating city streets, the right car will not only enhance your journey but also become an integral part of your Montana adventure.