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.
Related Medicare topics
Important: We are not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or the federal Medicare program. This page is general education. Availability, eligibility, costs, and benefits can vary by plan and area.