What Is Original Medicare
A clear explanation of Original Medicare and how it works for your coverage
OFFICIAL 2026 EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE BY WALTER JOHNSON, LICENSED INSURANCE AGENT (CA #0J15814).
A clear explanation of Original Medicare and how it works for your coverage
What is Original Medicare? Learn what Parts A and B cover, how it works, costs, and how it compares to Medicare Advantage.
What Is Original Medicare?
Original Medicare is the traditional government-run health insurance program made up of Part A and Part B.
It provides basic coverage for hospital care and medical services and is the foundation of Medicare for many people.
Understanding how Original Medicare works helps you decide if itβs the right coverage for your needs.
Start here: π Medicare Basics
What Does Original Medicare Include?
Original Medicare includes two main parts:
Part A (Hospital Insurance)
Part B (Medical Insurance)
Together, these parts cover a wide range of healthcare services.
What Part A Covers
Part A focuses on inpatient and facility-based care.
This includes:
Hospital stays
Skilled nursing facility care
Hospice care
Some home health services
Learn more: π Does Medicare Cover Hospital Stays
What Part B Covers
Part B covers outpatient and medical services.
This includes:
Doctor visits
Preventive services
Lab tests and imaging
Durable medical equipment
Learn more: π Does Medicare Cover Doctor Visits
How Original Medicare Works
With Original Medicare, you can:
Visit any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare
Receive care anywhere in the United States
There are no network restrictions, which gives you flexibility in choosing providers.
What Original Medicare Does NOT Cover
Original Medicare does not cover everything.
Some common gaps include:
Prescription drugs (without Part D)
Dental, vision, and hearing care
Long-term custodial care
Because of these gaps, many people choose additional coverage.
Learn more: π What Medicare Doesnβt Cover
Costs with Original Medicare
With Original Medicare, you typically pay:
Part B monthly premium
Deductibles for Part A and Part B
Coinsurance (usually 20% for Part B services)
There is no annual out-of-pocket maximum, which means costs can add up over time.
Learn more: π How Much Does Medicare Cost Per Month
Original Medicare vs Medicare Advantage
Original Medicare is different from Medicare Advantage (Part C).
Original Medicare β government-run, flexible provider access
Medicare Advantage β private plans with bundled coverage and networks
Each option has different benefits, costs, and rules.
Learn more: π Medicare Advantage vs Original Medicare
Do You Need Additional Coverage?
Many people with Original Medicare choose to add:
Part D for prescription drug coverage
Supplemental coverage (Medigap) to help pay out-of-pocket costs
These options help fill gaps in coverage.
Learn more: π Does Medicare Cover Prescription Drugs
Why This Matters
Understanding Original Medicare helps you:
decide between coverage options
plan for healthcare costs
avoid coverage gaps
Next Step
Now that you understand Original Medicare, the next step is learning about Medicare Advantage plans.
Continue to: π What Is Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Related Guides
β’ Medicare Basics
β’ What Is Medicare
β’ Medicare Advantage vs Original Medicare
β’ Does Medicare Cover Prescription Drugs