Definition. Original Medicare is Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance), run by the federal government rather than a private plan. You can see any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare, usually without referrals, but there's no yearly limit on what you pay.
What it means
Original Medicare is the fee-for-service program run by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice and some home health care. Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services and medical equipment. After the Part B deductible ($283 in 2026), you generally pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, with no out-of-pocket limit.
To fill the gaps, many people add a Medigap policy and a stand-alone Part D drug plan. The alternative is Medicare Advantage, where a private plan covers your Part A and Part B services.
In Oregon
In July 2026, 450,352 of Oregon's 973,880 people with Medicare had Original Medicare (CMS Monthly Enrollment). In five counties (Grant, Harney, Lake, Umatilla and Union) no Medicare Advantage plan is open to everyone for 2027, so Original Medicare, with Medigap and a Part D plan if you choose, is the main option there unless you have an employer group plan. Oregon's Medigap birthday rule lets people with Medigap switch each year, from 30 days before to 30 days after their birthday, to a policy with the same or lesser benefits. See rural Oregon and Medicare and your county's page.
Sources
- Medicare.gov — Compare Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage
- CMS — Medicare Monthly Enrollment
- CMS — 2026 Medicare Parts A & B premiums and deductibles
Frequently asked questions
Is Original Medicare the same as Medicare Advantage?
No. Original Medicare is run by the federal government. Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are offered by private companies that contract with Medicare and usually use a provider network.
Do I need a referral for specialists on Original Medicare?
Generally no. You can see any provider that accepts Medicare, and in most cases you don't need a referral.
How do I get drug coverage with Original Medicare?
Join a stand-alone Part D drug plan, or keep other creditable drug coverage such as from an employer or the VA. Without either, you may owe a Part D late enrollment penalty if you join later.
Medicare in your Oregon county
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