What is Original Medicare?

Part A and Part B are often referred to as “Original Medicare.”  When eligible for Medicare, you will automatically be enrolled in Original Medicare unless you choose a Medicare health plan.  Under this plan, you can go to any doctor, supplier, hospital, or other facility that is enrolled in Medicare and accepting new Medicare patients.  It is fee-for-service coverage, meaning that, generally, there is a cost for each service.

You generally pay a set amount for your health care (deductable) before Medicare pays its share. Then, Medicare pays its share, and you pay your share (coinsurance / copayment) for covered services and supplies.  Except for Part B where you typically pay a monthly premium.