Can I get prescription drug coverage if I only have Medicare Part A?
Is it possible to add prescription coverage to Medicare Part A alone, or do I need additional coverage?
No, Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) by itself does not include prescription drug coverage. If you only have Part A and want prescription drug coverage, you will need to enroll in additional coverage. Here are your options for adding prescription drug coverage:
1. Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Plan):
Standalone Prescription Drug Plan (PDP): You can enroll in a Medicare Part D plan, which is specifically designed to cover outpatient prescription drugs. This plan works alongside your Medicare Part A to provide coverage for your medications. You will pay a separate monthly premium for the Part D plan, and you’ll be responsible for copayments, coinsurance, and any applicable deductibles based on the plan.
How to Enroll: You can sign up for a standalone Part D plan during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) from October 15 to December 7, or during a Special Enrollment Period if you qualify.
2. Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C):
If you want comprehensive coverage that includes hospital, medical, and prescription drugs, you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C). Most Medicare Advantage plans bundle Part A, Part B, and Part D coverage into one plan, so you don’t need to purchase separate drug coverage.
Additional Benefits: Medicare Advantage plans often include extra benefits that Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover, such as vision, dental, and hearing care, along with fitness programs.
3. Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap):
It’s important to note that Medigap plans (which help cover out-of-pocket costs for Original Medicare services) do not include prescription drug coverage. If you have Medigap, you will still need to enroll in a separate Part D plan for prescription drugs.
Why You Need Additional Coverage:
Medicare Part A primarily covers hospital stays, hospice care, and some skilled nursing facility care, but it does not cover most outpatient prescription drugs.
To get coverage for your medications, you’ll need to add either a Medicare Part D plan or switch to a Medicare Advantage Plan that includes drug coverage.
Key Takeaways:
Medicare Part A alone does not include prescription drug coverage.
To add prescription drug coverage, you need to enroll in a Medicare Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan that includes Part D coverage.
For help finding the best prescription drug coverage or understanding your Medicare options, schedule an appointment with a Tsunami Advisor here: Schedule an Appointment.
