Parts A & B
Original Medicare — The Foundation
Original Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older (and some younger people with disabilities). It has two parts: Part A covers hospital care, and Part B covers medical services.
Part AHospital Insurance
Covers inpatient care — when you're admitted to a hospital, skilled nursing facility, or hospice.
- Inpatient hospital stays
- Skilled nursing facility care (after a qualifying hospital stay)
- Hospice care
- Some home health care
Part BMedical Insurance
Covers outpatient care — doctor visits, preventive services, and medical equipment.
- Doctor visits and specialist care
- Outpatient procedures and surgeries
- Preventive services (annual wellness visits, screenings)
- Durable medical equipment (wheelchairs, walkers)
- Mental health services
- Ambulance services
What Does It Cost?
Original Medicare has no out-of-pocket maximum — costs can add up quickly without supplemental coverage.
Part A Premium$0 for most people (if you or spouse paid Medicare taxes for 10+ years)
Part A Deductible$1,736 per benefit period (2026)
Part B Premium$202.90/month (standard 2026)
Part B Deductible$271 per year (2026)
Part B Coinsurance20% of Medicare-approved costs (no out-of-pocket maximum)
What Original Medicare Does NOT Cover
These are the gaps that Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plans can fill.
✕Prescription drugs (Part D needed)
✕Routine dental care
✕Routine vision and eyeglasses
✕Hearing aids
✕Long-term care / custodial care
✕Most care outside the U.S.
Want to Build on Your Medicare Foundation?
Original Medicare is the starting point — I can help you add the right supplemental coverage to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
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