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Social Security & Medicare Questions Q: During my last physical exam my family doctor found a lump in my breast and suggested that I see a surgeon for a needle biopsy to remove a small piece of tissue for examination. Now the surgeon says she cannot feel the lump and has suggested that I have a mammogram instead. I'm concerned about running up a lot of medical bills when the doctors don't seem to be sure of what's wrong. What exactly does Medicare cover? A: Medicare will cover “second opinions” relating to the medical need for surgery, or for major non-surgical diagnostic and therapeutic procedures such as getting a needle biopsy. A third opinion is also covered, which is essential in your case where there is doubt about the diagnosis. Payment will be made for your examination and for other diagnostic services such as mammograms to properly evaluate your need for a surgical procedure. Medicare has recently expanded coverage of mammograms. Medicare recipients are entitled to one mammogram per 12-month period. The Part B deductible is waived for these tests. Source: “Medicare Made Easy” 1999 edition, Charles B. Inlander, president of The People's Medical Society & Michael A. Donio, MJF Books, New York, NY.
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