Lesson 2 of 15
Understanding Original Medicare (Parts A & B)
Quick answer
Original Medicare is Parts A (hospital) and B (medical) administered directly by the federal government. Part A is usually premium-free; Part B has a monthly premium. You must have both to keep TRICARE For Life active.
Key takeaways
- Part A covers inpatient hospital, skilled nursing, hospice, and limited home health.
- Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient services, preventive care, and durable medical equipment.
- Both Part A and Part B are required to keep TRICARE For Life — Part B is not optional for retired military.
- Original Medicare has no network: any provider who accepts Medicare assignment can see you.
Detailed explanation
Original Medicare is the government-run, fee-for-service Medicare benefit. It has been the backbone of senior coverage since 1965.
Part A — Hospital insurance
Part A covers:
- Inpatient hospital stays
- Skilled nursing facility care (after a qualifying hospital stay)
- Hospice care
- Some home health services
Most people get Part A premium-free because they or their spouse paid Medicare payroll taxes for at least 40 quarters (10 years).
Part B — Medical insurance
Part B covers:
- Doctor and specialist visits
- Outpatient hospital services
- Preventive services (annual wellness, flu shots, screenings)
- Durable medical equipment (wheelchairs, walkers, CPAP machines)
- Ambulance services
- Mental health services
Part B has a monthly premium (typically deducted from your Social Security check), an annual deductible, and a 20% coinsurance on most services. For TFL beneficiaries, that 20% is usually picked up by TFL at participating providers.
Why Part B is non-negotiable for TFL
The TRICARE For Life Handbook is direct on this point: you must be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B to be eligible for TFL. Drop Part B and you lose TFL the same day.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the Part B premium?
The standard Part B premium is around $185/month in 2025 (adjusted annually). Higher-income beneficiaries pay an Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) on top.
What does Part A actually cost?
Premium-free for most. There is an inpatient deductible per benefit period and coinsurance for long stays — TFL helps cover those cost-shares.
Can I delay Part B if I'm still working?
Active-duty TRICARE is different. Once retired and eligible for Medicare, you must take Part B when first eligible or face a permanent late-enrollment penalty and lose TFL.
Official government resources
- Medicare & You Handbook (2026)— CMS
- Medicare.gov — official program site— CMS
- TRICARE For Life Handbook (2026)— Defense Health Agency
Official Medicare and TRICARE publications are the definitive source. This page is an independent educational summary; always confirm specifics against the resources above.