Original Medicare is the alternative to Medicare Advantage, which is the private Medicare option offered through Part C. With Original Medicare, beneficiaries receive hospital insurance and medical insurance that allows them to afford hospital stays, medically necessary services, and preventive health services. With Original Medicare, you only pay a portion of the Medicare-approved amount for services. While covered by Original Medicare, you must pay premiums to keep your benefits. Deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments are also costs that may be incurred.