What Is Original Medicare and What Does It Cover?

If you’re approaching 65—or helping a loved one who is—you’ve probably started hearing a lot about Medicare. And while there are many choices out there (hello, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement Plans), everything starts with understanding the basics of Original Medicare.

At Moser Insurance Group Inc., we’re here to make Medicare simple, not stressful. We’re proud to serve our neighbors in Greensboro, High Point, Winston-Salem, Burlington, Archdale, Trinity, Asheboro, Randleman, Raleigh, and Charlotte, North Carolina—and help you feel confident about your healthcare choices.

What Is Original Medicare?

Original Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people age 65 and older (and some younger people with disabilities). It’s made up of two parts:

Part A – Hospital Insurance

This covers:

• Inpatient hospital stays
• Skilled nursing facility care
• Hospice care
• Some home health care

If you’ve worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years, you’ll likely receive Part A at no cost.

Part B – Medical Insurance

This covers:

• Doctor visits
• Outpatient care
• Preventive services (like screenings and vaccines)
• Lab tests
• Durable medical equipment (like wheelchairs and walkers)

You’ll usually pay a monthly premium for Part B, and there may be deductibles and coinsurance.

What’s Not Covered by Original Medicare?

Here’s where many people are surprised. Original Medicare does not cover:

• Prescription drugs
• Routine dental, vision, and hearing care (dentalvisionhearing)
• Long-term care
• Overseas medical care

That’s why many people turn to Medicare Supplement Plans (also called Medigap plans) or Medicare Advantage plans to fill the gaps.

How to Fill the Gaps in Original Medicare

At Moser Insurance Group Inc., we can help you explore options like:

Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap)

These plans help cover what Original Medicare doesn’t—like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. One of the most popular options is Plan G, which offers broad coverage and predictable costs. Medigap plans work alongside Original Medicare.

Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)

These are all-in-one alternatives to Original Medicare, offered by private insurance companies. Most include Prescription Drug Plans and often cover extras like dentalvisionhearing, gym memberships, and more. You get your Part A and Part B coverage through the plan.

Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)

If you stay on Original Medicare, you’ll want to consider a separate Part D plan to help with the cost of medications.

Need Help Choosing the Right Coverage?

You don’t have to figure this out on your own.
Here at Moser Insurance Group Inc., we specialize in helping people across North Carolina choose the Medicare coverage that fits their needs and budget. We also offer:

• Affordable Health Care / ObamaCare
• Health Insurance for those under 65
• Life Insurance, including Universal Life Insurance, Burial Insurance, and Final Expense coverage
• Annuities for retirement income
• Help navigating the Healthcare Marketplace in NC
  …and so much more.

Let’s Make Medicare Make Sense

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or just want to make sure you’re making the best decision, let’s talk. We offer free consultations with no pressure—just friendly guidance from a local team that cares.