What Does Original Medicare Cover?
Original Medicare consists of Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance).
It helps cover essential healthcare services such as inpatient hospital stays, doctor visits, diagnostic tests, and preventive care. Costs are paid as you receive services, and to qualify for coverage, you must be lawfully present in the U.S.
How to Check If Medicare Covers a Service
If you’re unsure whether Medicare covers a specific service or item, here are two ways to find out:
- Consult Your Doctor: Talk to your healthcare provider about why you need a particular service or supply. They can help determine if Medicare will cover it.
- Review Coverage Information: Medicare coverage decisions are based on three key factors:
- Federal and state laws that govern healthcare benefits.
- Medicare’s national coverage policies for services and treatments.
- Local coverage rules set by Medicare contractors, which determine whether a service is medically necessary in your area.
While Original Medicare covers a wide range of medical needs, it does not include certain services like long-term care, dentures, and routine physical exams. Understanding your coverage options can help you plan for any additional benefits you may need.
