What You Pay for a Doctor Visit With Original Medicare in 2026
With Original Medicare in 2026, you pay the Part B deductible of $283 once a year. After that, you usually pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for each covered doctor visit, as long as the doctor accepts assignment. Other coverage, the doctor's Medicare status and where you're seen can change what you pay.
The Basic Costs
| Cost | What Medicare.gov says for 2026 |
|---|---|
| Part B premium | $202.90 a month, or higher depending on income. You pay it even if you don't use Part B services. |
| Part B deductible | $283 a year, before Original Medicare starts to pay. |
| Coinsurance | Usually 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for each covered service, after the deductible, when the provider accepts assignment. |
| Yearly limit | None in Original Medicare, unless you have supplemental coverage such as Medigap, or other insurance. |
These amounts are for 2026 and can change each year. Medicare.gov has the current figures.
This guide explains how to find and check care. It can't tell you which doctor or treatment is right for you. Your doctor or plan can.
What Can Change the Amount
- The doctor's Medicare status. A doctor who doesn't accept assignment can, in many cases, charge up to 15% above the Medicare-approved amount. A doctor who has opted out isn't paid by Medicare at all. See what assignment means.
- Other coverage. Medigap, employer or retiree coverage, or Medicaid may pay some of your share.
- A Medicare Advantage plan. Plans set their own costs and have a yearly out-of-pocket limit. Ask your plan.
- Where you're seen. Medicare.gov says that in a hospital outpatient setting you also pay the hospital a copayment for each service, so you may pay more than for the same service in a doctor's office.
What to Ask Before the Visit
- Do you accept Medicare assignment for this visit?
- Is this office part of a hospital outpatient department? Will I get a separate bill from the hospital?
- What will I owe at the visit?
If you have limited income, Medicare.gov says your state may help with premiums and other costs. For coverage questions, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.
Common Questions
Do I pay the deductible at every visit?
No. Medicare.gov says you pay the Part B deductible once each year.
Is 20% of the bill the same as 20% of the approved amount?
Not always. Medicare.gov describes the 20% as a share of the Medicare-approved amount, which can differ from what an office lists as its charge. Ask the office.
Does this site show what a visit costs?
No. The public file doesn't include prices. Ask the office and, if you have one, your plan.