# What Are The Things to Know About Medicare Part D Coverage?
When you become eligible for Medicare Part A which generally happens upon your 65th birthday or the seven month period surrounding it. That is three months before your birth month, your birth month and three months thereafter, you also become eligible for Part B and [Medicare Part D Quotes](https://www.consumercoverage.com/medicare/medicare-part-d-coverage). Part B is broadly speaking medical services, screenings and durable medical equipment. Part D is prescription coverage for medications prescribed by a health care provider.


### What Is Included In Medicare Part D Coverage?
Medicare Part D is prescription drug insurance provided through a Medicare approved provider. Though each provider may have different co-pays and deductibles as well as a list of eligible drugs called a formulary, each must offer 2 medications in most commonly prescribed categories. Part D plans must provide 2 options but the choice of what 2 drugs they will pay for is up to them. Selection of a Part D plan can be a stand-alone plan added to your Part A & B coverage or may be included at no extra cost in a [Medicare Advantage plan](https://www.consumercoverage.com/medicare/medicare-part-c-coverage).

### How Do I Choose Between Medicare Part D Coverage Plans?
There are a number of factors that should be considered when selecting a Part D coverage provider and the choice will be dictated by things other than the premium cost. Begin with a look at the formulary, the list of drugs which they will cover. If you currently have prescriptions, check the formulary to see if your drug(s) are listed. Next check to see the deductible amount you must pay before the plan begins to cover. Next determine your co-pays and you will get a better picture of what each plan will cost in addition to the premium. Though a Medicare Advantage plan may not charge a separate fee for their Part D plan the details like co-pays, deductibles and what is covered may help you decide [how to choose medicare plan](https://www.consumercoverage.com/blog/medicare-insurance/choose-medicare-plan).

### If I Choose A Plan That Doesn’t Work For Me, When Can I Change?
If the plan that you initially select at the time of your first enrollment in Medicare or your Advantage plan’s Part D coverage no longer suits your needs you may change during the open enrollment period that currently begins Oct 15th and continues until December 7th. If you wish to change Medicare Advantage Plans you may also do so one time from January 1st to March 31st each year. If you have been covered by an employer’s prescription plan and end that coverage you may also be eligible for a special enrollment period.

### How Much Will It Cost?
No simple answers here as each plan is different and costs including out of pocket and copay expenses are different. Most plans have their drugs organized in tiers with generic options being the least expensive options. Other levels will include name brands and less frequently prescribed or more expensive drugs. The government determines the figures where the coverage gap (doughnut hole) begins each year but the terms are the same for all. The plan is free to increase the amount paid if the cost of the prescription increases. In 2021 the average premium cost nationwide is about $33 a month. In general plans with lower premiums have higher deductible costs and higher copays. At [www.consumercoverage.com](https://www.consumercoverage.com) you can explore Medicare Part D coverage in both stand-alone plans and as a part of Medicare Advantage plans.