What Is Original Medicare?
Original Medicare is the federal health insurance program provided directly by the U.S. government. It includes Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance) and is available to most people age 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities.
Original Medicare allows you to see any doctor or hospital in the United States that accepts Medicare — without needing referrals or network restrictions.
Learn more about eligibility here:
👉 Who Is Eligible for Medicare?
What Does Original Medicare Cover?
Original Medicare is made up of two parts:
Medicare Part A – Hospital Insurance
Part A generally covers:
Inpatient hospital stays
Skilled nursing facility care (short-term, after a hospital stay)
Hospice care
Some home health care
Learn more:
👉 Understanding Medicare Part A
Medicare Part B – Medical Insurance
Part B generally covers:
Doctor visits
Outpatient services
Preventive care
Lab work and imaging
Durable medical equipment
Learn more:
👉 Understanding Medicare Part B
What Original Medicare Does NOT Cover
Original Medicare does not typically cover:
Routine dental care
Vision exams for glasses
Hearing aids
Most prescription drugs
Long-term custodial care
Because of these gaps, many people choose additional coverage.
👉 What Is a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plan?
👉 What Are Medicare Advantage Plans?
👉 Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans
Official coverage details:
https://www.medicare.gov/coverage
How Much Does Original Medicare Cost?
While many people qualify for premium-free Part A, you are generally required to pay:
A monthly Part B premium
Deductibles for Part A and Part B
20% coinsurance for most Part B services
No annual out-of-pocket maximum
One important thing to understand:
Original Medicare does not cap your out-of-pocket costs. That’s why many beneficiaries add a Medicare Supplement plan to limit financial exposure.
👉 Compare Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage
Do You Need Additional Coverage?
Most people enrolled in Original Medicare also enroll in:
A Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan to reduce out-of-pocket costs
A Part D prescription drug plan for medication coverage
Choosing the right combination depends on your health needs, budget, and long-term goals.
Is Original Medicare Right for You?
Original Medicare may be a good fit if you:
Want the freedom to see any provider that accepts Medicare
Travel frequently within the U.S.
Prefer minimal network restrictions
Plan to pair it with a Medicare Supplement plan
If you’re unsure which direction makes sense, it helps to compare both options side-by-side.
👉 Schedule a Free Medicare Consultation
Need Help Comparing Plans?
Contact us to learn more about the right Medicare Advantage plan for you.
Get a quote for Medicare Advantage Plans