Original Medicare (Part A & Part B) is managed by the federal government. The benefits are exactly the same for every person who enrolls and there are no pre-existing condition limitations or waiting periods.

There are two parts to Original Medicare:

• Part A covers inpatient care when you are admitted to a hospital or skilled nursing home. It also covers hospice care and many kinds of home health care.
• Part B pays for outpatient expenses like doctor visits, x-rays, lab tests, and can also cover durable medical equipment.

There is no premium for Part A but there is a premium for Part B. The Part B premium is set by the government each year. The premium for Part B may be higher if you delay enrollment or if your income is over certain levels.

There is no coverage for prescription drugs under Original Medicare, but you are able to enroll in a Stand-alone Part D plan.

IMPORTANT: With Original Medicare benefits, you are responsible for 20% of Part B costs and there is no limit to how much you pay out-of-pocket each year.