Original Medicare, administered by the federal government, is the foundational health insurance program for Americans aged 65 and older, and for certain younger individuals with disabilities. It consists of two main parts: Part A, which covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care services; and Part B, which covers medically necessary outpatient services like doctor visits, preventive services, lab tests, durable medical equipment, and some home health care. Unlike private insurance or Medicare Advantage plans, Original Medicare does not include Part D prescription drug coverage, nor does it include routine dental, vision, or hearing services. Beneficiaries typically pay deductibles and coinsurance, and many purchase a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan to help cover out-of-pocket costs. Original Medicare provides nationwide access to providers who accept Medicare, without the need for referrals or networks. However, it does not place a cap on annual out-of-pocket expenses, meaning financial exposure can be high for beneficiaries without supplemental coverage.