Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)
Coverage for your medications.
What is Part D?
Medicare Part D is prescription drug coverage offered by private insurance companies. It helps pay for the medications you take at home. You can get Part D coverage through a standalone Prescription Drug Plan or as part of a Medicare Advantage plan.
Even if you do not take many medications now, enrolling in Part D when you are first eligible can help you avoid late enrollment penalties later.
Formulary
A list of prescription drugs the plan covers. Each plan has its own formulary, so it is important to check that your medications are included.
Drug Tiers
Drugs are grouped into tiers. Generic drugs usually cost less than brand-name drugs. Higher tiers may have higher out-of-pocket costs.
Pharmacy Network
Plans have preferred pharmacies where you may pay less. Make sure your preferred pharmacy is in the plan's network.
When Can You Enroll?
- Initial Enrollment Period — when you first become eligible for Medicare
- Annual Enrollment Period — October 15 to December 7 each year
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period — January 1 through March 31 for people already enrolled in Medicare Advantage who are eligible to make certain coverage changes.
- Special Enrollment Periods — when certain life events happen
How I Can Help
I can review your current medications and help you compare Part D options based on drug coverage, premiums, deductibles, copays, and pharmacy networks so you can make an informed choice.