Original Medicare, also known as Part A and Part B, is the base-level of Medicare coverage. Part A covers inpatient hospital and hospice care. Part A also covers some in-home care options as well as a stay in a Skilled Nursing Facility. Think of this as the coverage you receive for any condition or issue that may land you in the hospital or in need of deeper care.
Part B covers outpatient services like x-rays, diagnostic tests, necessary equipment such as a wheelchair or scooters, and even preventative services like mammograms. Think of this as non-emergency medical insurance.
Remember those Medicare taxes you paid each month while you were employed? Now they’re here to benefit you, as most people don’t pay a monthly premium for Part A. However, the same cannot be said for Part B, as a monthly premium is typically due, and which can change from year to year.
Using Original Medicare can serve you in many ways, such as not needing referrals to specialists; seeing any doctor anytime, anywhere; and no need for having a primary care physician. As long as whoever you choose to see is enrolled in Medicare and accepting Medicare patients, you are free to utilize any services you deem necessary.
We know this is a lot of information and that you probably have questions or concerns about how, when, and why to sign up for Medicare. We are in your corner, and we are here to help walk you through all of this.
