The foundation
Original Medicare is the government program. You can generally see any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare, anywhere in the U.S., without a plan network. After deductibles, Part B typically pays 80% of approved amounts for many outpatient services.
Gaps people often fill
Original Medicare does not include a yearly out-of-pocket maximum for Parts A and B in the same way Medicare Advantage does. Many people add Medigap to make costs more predictable, and a Part D plan for prescriptions.
What it usually does not cover
Routine dental, vision, and hearing; most long-term custodial care; and care outside the U.S. (with limited exceptions) are generally not covered. Some people value Medicare Advantage extra benefits for those gaps; others prefer Medigap plus standalone extras.
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2026 figures
Original Medicare cost estimator
Add 2026 Part A and Part B figures for a simple yearly sketch — not a plan quote.
Worksheet
SNF 3-day stay and benefit period
Original Medicare skilled nursing: the 3-day inpatient rule, days 1–100, and 2026 coinsurance.