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A patient who qualifies for Medicare insurance also
qualifies for its prescription drug coverage through a program called
the Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Program or Medicare Part D.
Participation in Medicare Part D requires completion of an enrollment
process.
What does Medicare
Part D offer?
Medicare Part D, a prescription drug insurance program, is Medicare
coverage for prescription medications. A patient signs up, and will
then choose between a private insurance prescription drug plan (PDP)
or a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan (MA-PD). Each plan has
different benefits, premiums, and deductibles. The plans include
brand-name and generic medications. Both plans will cover a portion
of the cost of the patient's prescription medications. The Medicare
website, Medicare.gov, and call center (800-633-4227)
can describe the available options and assist in selecting a plan
that is appropriate.
Does my patient
qualify for Medicare Part D?
Everyone with Medicare insurance is eligible for Medicare Part D,
regardless of income, resources, health status or current
prescription expenses. Visit the Medicare website, Medicare.gov,
to explore this and other programs, and to see which might be best
for them. There is an online tool to help patients decide which
program is appropriate, or they can call Medicare at 800-633-4227.
What else should patients
know about Medicare Part D?
Like other insurance programs, there may be a monthly charge to
belong to Medicare Part D. There may also be a deductible and/or
co-payment every time a prescription is filled. However, these
charges vary depending on the plan patients choose and their income.
The less they earn, the less they may be charged. In some cases, and
for some plans, there may be no deductible and co-payments may be
very low.
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