MEDICARE PARTS

What is Medicare Part D?

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It’s Prescription Drug Coverage

Did you know that Medicare Parts A and B do not cover prescription drugs? Medicare Part D are plans offered by private insurers – and approved by Medicare – that help pay for prescriptions drugs.

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MEDICARE VIDEO

Play This Medicare Part D Video

Get a quick overview of Medicare Part D. This short video covers key facts you should know about Medicare Part D, including enrollment.

Key Facts About Medicare Part D

Medicare Part D plan can help pay for covered prescription medications. These plans may require approval for certain drugs — with potential restrictions and limits. Part D plans use a five-tier system to determine the cost of drugs.

Some important information about Medicare Part D:

Some drugs need to be approved by the plan before they are covered — your doctor can help you get approval.
You may be asked to start with a less expensive — yet effective — drug, such as a generic brand; if it does not work for you, the plan will cover the more expensive drug.
There can be limits on how much of a drug you’re allowed — either in quantity or refills — which are generally based on safety guidelines.

Cost considerations with Medicare Part D:

You will pay a copay or coinsurance for your prescriptions.
Some plans also have a deductible that must be met before benefits begin.
After spending a government-set amount of money on medications, you may reach or exceed a coverage gap in a year — copayments and coinsurances can change during these times.