Should I just select the Medicare Part D plan with the Lowest Monthly Premium?
In general, the goal of most Medicare recipients is to simply find a plan that most affordably covers their annual Medication costs - which includes the plan's monthly premium, deductibles, and copayments.For many people with low or no prescription costs, the monthly Medicare Part D premium cost will be the largest cost factor - and therefore, weigh heavily in the plan selection process. (If you are taking no or few prescriptions (especially generics), consider a plan with the lowest monthly premium that covers your medications.)
For people who have larger monthly prescription drug needs, the plan's monthly premium cost may play a smaller role. (So if you are spending $500.00 per month on prescription costs - the $20 monthly premium is not the largest cost factor.)
In such a case, the monthly costs of your prescription drugs will be much more important factor. For instance, if one of your medications is not covered by a particular plan (or differently covered), the monthly cost difference between the plans could vary into the $100s - whereas the variation between plan premiums may only be $20 to $40 dollars per month.
In such a case, the monthly costs of your prescription drugs will be much more important factor. For instance, if one of your medications is not covered by a particular plan (or differently covered), the monthly cost difference between the plans could vary into the $100s - whereas the variation between plan premiums may only be $20 to $40 dollars per month.
Bottom line -
do your math before enrolling. Check to see how much you will pay for your medications under each plan. The difference between deductibles, coinsurance and copayments can also play a significant role in plan selection.
Need some help? No problem. You can always telephone a Medicare representative at 1-800-633-4227 and ask for unbiased assistance finding a Medicare plan that most economically covers your health and prescription needs.
You may find that a Medicare Advantage plan (providing Medicare Part D, Medicare Part A, and Medicare Part B coverage is the most affordable option).
- Need help with your Medicare Part D plan comparison?