Medicare Part D plans are one of the optional types of Medicare coverage made available through private insurance providers. All those who want to choose prescription drug coverage generally must select a Part D plan. Various options are available under Part D that vary based on the list of different prescription drugs covered in each particular plan. To pick the best Philadelphia Medicare Part D Plan that will be economical while also providing you with suitable coverage, it’s important to undergo some research and consult with the experts if you can.
Medicare Part D plans each have their medication “tiers,” or categories. Each medication list is known as a formulary. Philadelphia Medicare Part D Plans must be selected based on the medication tiers and then must be included in your plan’s formulary list. With all the variability, it is essential to research all your available options to help determine the best plan for you.
The different prescription drugs covered in each plan will vary. That said, every plan does include a basic level of coverage determined by Medicare. Remember that while Medicare Part C plans in Philadelphia may cover certain over-the-counter drugs and prescriptions, Part D is reserved specifically for prescription drug costs.
There are two types of prescription drugs that are generally chosen by the members of the Medicare Part D; namely, preferred brand name and non-preferred brand name drugs. Preferred brand name drugs are the drugs that are the general variations that are not always available in the market. Non-preferred brand name drugs are the drugs that have a generic comparable version available in the market.
To lower the overall costs of medication, most of the Medicare Part D plans in Philadelphia provide coverage in different tiers. The medication tiers are generally segregated by brand name, generic, and which is preferred by the individual enrolled in the plan.
Different tiers of prescription drugs and their costs
- Tier 1 generally offers the lowest copay and includes most generic drugs
- Tier 2 comes with a medium copay and can include many common brand-name drugs as well as some higher-cost generic drugs
- Tier 3 entails the highest copay and includes brand-name drugs not covered by the other tiers
- Tier 4 is also known as “specialty tier” and includes uncommon or very high-cost drugs, for which the consumer pays a percentage out-of-pocket
While one might assume that they should simply opt for generic drugs to save on costs, in many cases providers believe in the increased efficacy or benefit from higher-tier prescriptions. These situations would entail higher costs for the healthcare recipient. If an individual is unable to pay for higher-tier prescription drugs, however, then they can file for an exception and request a lower-tier Medicare plan.