MEDICARE PART D
Medicare Part D
The fourth letter in the alphabet soup of Medicare is Part D, which provides prescription drug coverage. This coverage is provided by insurance companies with Federal government contracts. Part D is either purchased as a standalone plan or it is included with many Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans. Before we get into the details of Medicare prescription coverage, it is important to understand that when we say “covered” that does not imply that the beneficiary has no financial responsibility.
Do I Really Need Prescription Coverage?
The short, but incomplete answer is, no. However, even if you don’t take prescription drugs now, you should consider getting Medicare drug coverage as delaying coverage may result in penalties. So, while optional, if you decide to forgo Part D coverage when you’re first eligible and you don’t have other creditable prescription drug coverage (Iike from an employer or union) or get Extra Help, you’ll likely pay a late enrollment penalty when you join a plan later. And, as with the Part B penalty, you’ll pay this penalty for as long as you have drug coverage.
What Prescriptions are Covered Under Medicare Part D?
Part C and Part D plans cover all vaccine drugs when necessary to prevent illness. Additionally, each plan will have its own unique formulary that outlines which drugs are covered and on which tier. Each plan is required by Medicare to offer at least two drugs in each class of drugs. These classes include: antidepressants, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, immunosuppressants, anti-cancer medications and HIV/AIDS drugs.
It is critical that before you choose a plan that someone told you was great, you should talk to a licensed Medicare specialist to determine which plan covers your prescriptions at the lowest cost.
It is also important to understand that not ALL drugs are covered by Part D. For instance, some drugs are actually covered under Medicare Part A or B in which case Part D will not be used. Also, drugs used for weigh loss/gain, fertility, erectile dysfunction, hair growth and over-the-counter drugs are not covered by Medicare.