Original Medicare, also known as traditional Medicare, is a federal health insurance program that includes Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance). Part A helps pay for inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and home health care. Part B covers doctors' services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services. It is managed by the federal government and allows beneficiaries to choose their doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers who accept Medicare. Beneficiaries generally pay a deductible and coinsurance for the services covered by Original Medicare. Most prescriptions are not covered, but beneficiaries can add drug coverage by joining a Medicare drug plan (Part D)
. Original Medicare does not cover some benefits such as eye exams, most dental care, and routine exams. To help pay the out-of-pocket costs in Original Medicare, beneficiaries can also shop for and buy supplemental coverage, such as Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap)
. In summary, Original Medicare provides coverage for a wide range of medical services and supplies, and beneficiaries have the flexibility to choose their healthcare providers, with the option to add drug coverage and supplemental insurance to help with out-of-pocket costs.
