Original Medicare
The traditional fee-for-service Medicare made up of Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) coverage.
Original Medicare is the traditional, fee-for-service Medicare program run directly by the federal government. It is made up of Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). Original Medicare lets members use any doctor or hospital in the United States that accepts Medicare — there is no network. Members pay a Part B premium, an annual Part B deductible, and 20% of most medical costs after the deductible. There is no annual out-of-pocket maximum, which is why most Original Medicare members buy a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policy to cover deductibles and coinsurance and add a stand-alone Part D plan for prescriptions. Original Medicare is the alternative to Medicare Advantage (Part C); a beneficiary chooses one or the other. People who travel often, want broad provider choice, or live in areas with limited Medicare Advantage networks tend to prefer Original Medicare paired with Medigap and Part D.
In real life
- A retiree on Original Medicare uses any cardiologist who accepts Medicare during winter travel in Florida.
- A new beneficiary picks Original Medicare plus a Plan G Medigap policy and a Part D plan for predictable costs.
- A snowbird with Original Medicare avoids network surprises across two states.
Also known as
Frequently asked questions about Original Medicare
Is there a network?+
No. Any provider that accepts Medicare assignment can treat you.
Is there an out-of-pocket cap?+
No — that is why most members add Medigap to limit exposure.
Does it include drug coverage?+
No. You add a stand-alone Part D plan.
Can I switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage?+
Yes, during the Annual Enrollment Period or other valid Special Enrollment Periods.
Source: medicare.gov