Original Medicare
Original Medicare is coverage managed by the federal government. Generally, there’s a cost for each service.
A Glance at the Original Medicare Health Insurance
Medicare is one of the oldest federal health insurance programs available to new Medicare beneficiaries and individuals with disabilities.
By November 2018, more than a million residents of Illinois had enrolled in original Medicare. This accounted for at least 21% of the state’s population and the numbers have kept growing since then.
- 1/3 of the Medicare members have opted for Part D prescription coverage.
- Residents in Alabama have the option to choose between 7-31 Medicare plans, depending on the county.
- Members under 65 aren’t required to enroll in Medigap (Medicare Supplement).
These numbers indicate that Medicare is one of the most popular health plans.
Not only does it give residents medical security, but it also provides them with a versatile range of options to choose from.
This, however, can get confusing for anyone who is signing up for a health plan for the first time. It’s why we’ve decided to breakdown the essential elements of Original Medicare Health Plans to make things easier for you.
Essential Elements of Original Medicare Plans
Original Medicare (Part A)
The standard health plan covers hospital care, inpatient care and home health care (offered in special circumstances).
The plan also includes medical care in a hospice environment and a skilled nursing facility.
For this plan, you’ll receive coverage for hospital expenses that are deemed essential to your health by a doctor.
These include a semi-private room, nursing services, meals, and medications.
Original Medicare (Part B)
This health plan covers specialist care including outpatient care, preventive care, and special medical supplies/equipment (e.g, wheelchairs).
It also covers home health care during special situations.
Many enroll in Part A and Part B as a combo healthcare plan to cover their hospital and medical insurance.
Both plans don’t cover custodial care, dental care, and prescription costs.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Unlike other Medicare health plans, this one is managed by private insurance companies that collaborate with Medicare.
The plan covers everything that the Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) offer along with supplementary benefits.
These include dental care, eye checkups, fitness classes and more.
Medigap (Medicare Supplement)
The supplementary plan covers out-of-pocket expenses and additional services that aren’t always included in an Original Medicare plan.
These benefits include coinsurance, copayments, and, deductibles.
Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D)
The part D covers prescription coverage that aligns with your healthcare and treatment plans. The list of drugs included in this coverage may vary.
Beneficiaries have to buy standalone Medicare Part D plans that are compatible with their Original Medicare health plan.
They can also enroll in Medicare Advantage plans that include Part D coverage.
Choosing the right Medicare plan is important.
We’re here to help.
Want some guidance? Work with a broker.
We provide free, unbiased advice, education and enrollment assistance – always abiding by our strict code of ethics.
You can call us anytime at 1-888-259-3339 (TTY:711), or use our form to schedule a remote or in-person appointment with a licensed agent (depending on where you live).
Prefer to shop on your own?
Our online enrollment tools makes it easy to compare your Medicare options.
When you click the button below, you’ll see two options: You can either enter your ZIP code to view the plans available in your area, or use our plan-finder tool to receive helpful guidance.