If bleeding occurs in the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine, the stool may turn black and sticky, and be described medically as black, tarry stool (melena). Generally, black, tarry stool also is foul-smelling.
Q. I have Original Medicare. A. The Part B costs for Original Medicare are as follows: Premium - $104.90 per month (in 2015); Deductible - $147 per year (in 2015); and Coinsurance - 20 percent for most services Medicare Part B covers.
Medicare Part B deductible. Medicare Part B benefits include (but aren't limited to) doctor's office visits, preventive screenings, and durable medical equipment. For some of these services, a deductible will apply, and Part B deductible is $166 in 2016. Often, you will pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for a health-care service after this deductible is met. Make sure to check with your doctor and Medicare because each benefit's coverage is different.