Prescription coverage · Part D
Making sense of Part D prescription drug coverage.
Part D plans differ in which medications they cover and what you pay at the pharmacy. I'll check your prescription list against the plans available to you.
What to look at
Is it right for you?
If you have Original Medicare — with or without a Medigap policy — a standalone Part D plan is usually how your prescriptions get covered. If you have creditable drug coverage from the VA, TRICARE For Life, or an employer plan, you may not need Part D at all.
That's worth checking rather than guessing: the answer depends on your coverage, your medications, and your pharmacy. Plans also change their drug lists every year.
Talk it through with CarrieCommon questions
I have VA drug coverage. Do I need Part D?
Often no — VA drug coverage is creditable, meaning you can skip Part D without a penalty. Some veterans still add a plan for pharmacy flexibility closer to home. It depends on how you fill prescriptions.
When can I enroll or switch plans?
Around your 65th birthday, during the Annual Enrollment Period each fall (October 15 – December 7), or during a Special Enrollment Period after certain life events.
What happens if I enroll late?
Medicare adds a permanent late-enrollment penalty to your premium if you go too long without creditable drug coverage.