Can you just have A and B and not enroll in anything else and still have good coverage?

Question

Joshua Ruiz · Accepted Answer

Yes, you can have just Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance), but it does not provide the full coverage most people need.

Original Medicare (A & B) covers about 80% of approved medical costs, which means you’re responsible for the remaining 20%—with no cap on out-of-pocket costs. It also doesn’t include things like prescription drug coverage (Part D), dental, vision, or hearing.

To help fill those gaps, most people choose one of the following:

Medicare Supplement + Part D: Covers the 20% and helps reduce unexpected medical costs.

Medicare Advantage (Part C): All-in-one plans that include A, B, often D, and extras like dental or vision.

So while A & B alone is technically “enough” to get by, it can leave you financially vulnerable. Most beneficiaries find better protection by adding coverage.

Gary Church · Answer

Yes! There could be a financial cost that you could face if you needed care. Since Medicare is a 80-20 health plan. (No cap)

Paul Potter · Answer

You are not required to add anything to Medicare A and B.  However, I have 3 primary issues with the Medicare alone option.

1.  Medicare does not limit your liability, which is to say that you could get hit with significant bills, EVEN THOUGH you have Medicare.
2. Medicare alone does not cover Prescription Drugs, which can get pretty expensive.
3. You may miss the opportunity to get a Medicare Supplement.

However, If you have a lot of VA Medical Benefits like CHAMP, I recommend only Medicare A & B because the other issues above are covered by VA.

Joshua Cooper · Answer

If you have A&B you are not covered adequately.  Original medicare only covers 80% of your coinsurance leaving you with too much risk.  20% coinsurance without a cap is a recipe for disaster.

Sandy Johnson · Answer

No. If you have only original Medicare, Parts A & B, you must also have Part D to be considered "Creditably Covered". I highly recommend that you go beyond that options and I'm here to help you understand why and make a sound decision that works for you.

Answered by Sandy Johnson on May 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in LA, AL, AR & 11 other states

Answered by Sandy Johnson Medicare Insurance Agent

Timothy Brown · Answer

Only if you have employer coverage. The 20% coinsurance that Medicare A& B doesn’t cover exposes you to potential high out of pocket cost when it comes to hospitalization, surgery of any other catastrophic event. Also Medicare A & B doesn’t have an out of pocket maximum which is the reason why it’s important to have addition coverage such a Medicare Supplement or a Medicare Advantage plan to offset the expenses.

Answered by Timothy Brown on May 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in PA, CT, DE & 15 other states

Answered by Timothy Brown Medicare Insurance Agent

Fred Manas · Answer

Yes, it's possible to have good coverage with just Part A and Part B of Medicare, also known as Original Medicare. You're essentially using the federal government's basic health insurance program. While you might consider additional coverage options like Part C (Medicare Advantage) or Part D (prescription drug coverage), you can have a well-rounded plan by sticking to Part A and B and adding a supplement. 
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Part A and Part B Coverage:
Part A covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facilities, and some home health care, while Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and other medical services. This provides a solid foundation for your health insurance. 
Additional Coverage:
You can choose to add supplemental plans, like Medigap policies, to help cover costs like co-pays, deductibles, and coinsurance. You can also add a separate prescription drug plan (Part D) if you need it. 
Medicare Advantage:
If you choose a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), you would forgo Original Medicare (Part A and B) and instead receive coverage from a private insurance company that contracts with Medicare. This can offer additional benefits, but it also comes with potential restrictions on provider choice and could be less compatible with retiree coverage. 
Making the Right Choice:
The best option depends on your individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. Consider your health needs, budget, and preferred providers when making your decision about Medicare coverage. 
In summary, having just Part A and B (Original Medicare) can provide sufficient coverage, but you may want to consider adding a Medigap policy or a separate prescription drug plan to enhance your coverage. If you're considering other options like Medicare Advantage, carefully evaluate the pros and cons to ensure it aligns with your needs.

Jerry Cohen · Answer

This is an individual choice based on the fact that Medicare Part B leaves the patient with an unlimited 20% cost sharing on covered medical expenses. Some people are willing to self insure and do other thimgs with their money as opposed to obtaining supplemental coverage.

Answered by Jerry Cohen on May 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in NY

Answered by Jerry Cohen Medicare Insurance Agent

Jaye Maxx Alexander II · Answer

Yes, you must have a PDP plan for prescription, and I will strongly recommend that you get a hospital indemnity plan in case you are admitted to the hospital. The aspect is to have the 20% that Medicare will not cover to plan for that cost, and you must have dental and vision that will assist with your overall health care.

Answered by Jaye Maxx Alexander II on May 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in NC, AK, AL & 47 other states

Answered by Jaye Maxx Alexander II Medicare Insurance Agent

Linda Davies · Answer

It is important to understand that original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover prescription drugs, dental, vision, hearing, long-term care, and other out-of-pocket costs like co-pays and co-insurance.

Your health status, financial situation, and additional healthcare needs are all important factors to be considered when enrolling into Medicare.

Robert Remin · Answer

This answer is provided in a video format. Watch the agent's video response here: https://medicareagentshub.com/questions/is-part-a-and-b-enough-standalone#robert-remin

Can you just have A and B and not enroll in anything else and still have good coverage?

Agents: Share Your Expertise

Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own

Agent Locator

Medicare Agents Hub
A non-government resource website

Can you just have A and B and not enroll in anything else and still have good coverage?

Agents: Share Your Expertise

Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own

Agent Locator

Medicare Agents HubA non-government resource website

Medicare Agents Hub
A non-government resource website