Original Medicare divides coverage into two main parts: Part A, which primarily covers inpatient hospital stays, and Part B, which covers doctor visits and outpatient services.

Part A, or hospital insurance, helps pay for inpatient care in a hospital, skilled nursing facility, hospice, and some home health care. Part B, or medical insurance, covers doctor appointments, preventive services, durable medical equipment, and other outpatient medical needs. Understanding the distinction is key to knowing what your healthcare costs might be.

This information provides a general overview and does not constitute a complete explanation of all Medicare benefits or costs.