D
Coverage
Part D
Prescription drug coverage and how to choose a plan.
Part D is prescription drug coverage offered by private plans. You can add it to Original Medicare, or get it built into a Medicare Advantage plan.
Key points
- Each plan has its own formulary (list of covered drugs) and tiers.
- Even if you take no medications, enrolling on time avoids a lifetime late-enrollment penalty.
- Costs include a monthly premium, deductible, and copays.
- Higher-income enrollees pay a Part D IRMAA surcharge.
Common questions
Next steps
Related topics
Educational only. This information is not personalized advice. For your specific situation, verify at Medicare.gov or speak with a licensed Medicare professional.