If you’re considering a Medicare Part D plan, or already enrolled, you may not understand some of the terms used.
Formulary
The formulary is the list of medications covered by the plan. Categorized into four different tiers with different costs.
Out-of-Pocket Maximum
The out-of-pocket maximum, or limit, is the most you will pay for covered prescriptions in one year. Typically, after you reach this amount in deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, the plan pays 100 percent of any remaining costs. Once you reach this amount, you will automatically receive catastrophic coverage and will pay a small amount for medications for the remainder of the year.
Tier
Medication is categorized into Tiers. Each Tier will have a different cost.
Generic
The least expensive and considered equivalent alternatives to expensive brand-name.
Preferred Brand Name
No equivalent alternative or generic version is available.
Non-Preferred Brand Name
One of the more expensive types of medication.
Specialty
The highest cost of medication available
Financial Help
For seniors with limited income and resources, financial help is available to help with some of the Part D costs. Qualification for the Extra Help program is based on income and resources.
References:
Finding Your Level of Extra Help: https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/help-paying-costs/extra-help/level-of-extra-help.html
Save on Drug Costs: https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/help-paying-costs/save-on-drug-costs/save-on-drug-costs.html
What Drug Plans Cover: https://www.medicare.gov/part-d/coverage/part-d-coverage.html
Generic Drugs: Questions and Answers: https://www.fda.gov/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/QuestionsAnswers/ucm100100.htm
Costs in the Coverage Gap: https://www.medicare.gov/part-d/costs/coverage-gap/part-d-coverage-gap.html
MUC50-2017-BCBS
