
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) doesn’t cover most prescription drugs. That’s where Medicare Part D comes in. Part D helps you pay for the medications your doctor prescribes, whether it’s something you take every day or a medication you only need temporarily. These plans are offered by private insurance companies, and they work alongside your Medicare coverage to protect you from high drug costs.

When you enroll in a Part D plan, you’ll receive a list of covered drugs, known as a formulary, which is divided into tiers. Each tier groups drugs by type and cost, from low-cost generics to brand-name or specialty medications. What you pay depends on the plan, the drug tier, and whether your pharmacy is in-network.
By enrolling in a standalone Part D Plan (Often used with Original Medicare or a Medigap Policy)
Through a Medicare Advantage Plan that includes drug coverage (Most do)
Even if you’re not taking any prescriptions right now, enrolling in a Part D plan when you’re first eligible can save you money and stress down the road. Waiting to enroll can lead to late enrollment penalties that stick with you for life. Beyond that, having drug coverage in place means you’re protected if your health changes or a new prescription becomes necessary. Without it, even common medications can quickly become a financial burden.
Choosing the right Part D plan depends on what medications you take, where you live, and which pharmacies you prefer. Each plan sets its own premiums, drug costs, and pharmacy networks, so it’s important to review your options carefully.
Your current prescriptions
Preferred pharmacies
Monthly premium vs. yearly costs
Coverage gaps and out-of-pocket limits
What About the Costs Medicare Doesn’t Cover?
Even with a solid drug plan, Medicare still leaves behind deductibles, copays, and coinsurance without a limit on out-of-pocket expenses. Medicare Supplement plans can help cover those gaps and protect your finances.

© 2026 The MacCalla Agency. All rights reserved. As a national Medicare brokerage, we work with multiple carriers to provide comprehensive plan options. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options. This is not a complete listing of plans available in your service area. For a complete listing please contact 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048), 24 hours a day/7 days a week or consult www.medicare.gov.