Original Medicare
Original Medicare (Parts A & B) is the government foundation. Broad provider access, no drug coverage, no annual out-of-pocket maximum.
What it covers
- What it pays for
- Government-run program with broad provider choice anywhere Medicare is accepted.
- How it works
- Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) benefits; you can add a Medicare Supplement and Part D.
- Who can get it, and when
- No health underwriting; enrollment timing (and penalties) matter for Parts B & D.
What it costs
- Part A deductible
- $1,736Per benefit period2026, CMS
Hawkins Insurance Group, LLC is not connected with or endorsed by the United States government or the federal Medicare program. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
What is good about it
- No network restrictions, referrals, or prior auth
The catch
- No annual out-of-pocket cap on cost sharing
- No built-in drug, dental, or vision coverage
Original Medicare with a Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage
| What is compared | Original Medicare with a Medicare Supplement | Medicare Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Provider flexibility | Any Medicare provider | Network-based |
| Out-of-pocket cap | None, and the Supplement makes costs predictable | A yearly out-of-pocket maximum |
| Dental, vision, OTC | Not included | Often included |
| Drug coverage | Add Part D separately | Usually included |
Mistakes to avoid
- Delaying Part D enrollment without creditable coverage. This triggers a permanent premium penalty of about 1% for each month late
- Waiting beyond 6 months after Part B to apply for a Medicare Supplement. Health changes may make you uninsurable
- Missing Part B initial enrollment and paying a 10% penalty per 12-month period of delay, permanently
Common questions
- Part A covers inpatient hospital, skilled nursing, hospice, and some home health. Part B covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, DME, and more.