Medicare is a healthcare program offering coverage to eligible individuals aged 65 and older and those with certain disabilities. It operates as a federal health insurance program, primarily funded through payroll taxes, providing essential medical services.
The Medicare Enrollment Period, designated to run from October 15th through December 7th, is the annual window when individuals on Medicare can enroll, make changes, or switch Medicare plans.
There are four available plans under Medicare:
- Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home healthcare services.
- Part B (Medical Insurance) covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and durable medical equipment.
- Part C (Medicare Advantage) covers Part A, B, and usually D.
- Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) covers prescription drugs.
We’re focusing on Part C and Part D plans in this article.
Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plan
Part C offers comprehensive coverage by bundling Parts A and B, often including extra benefits like dental and vision. Part C may also include prescription drug coverage. Medicare Advantage plans have a network of doctors and hospitals and involves varying costs.
In contrast, Part D focuses solely on prescription medications, whether standalone or integrated into some Part C plans. Stand-alone Part D plans use pharmacy networks and has monthly premiums, deductibles, and copayments, with more freedom to choose healthcare providers as you will not have a network of providers to choose from (as with a Medicare Advantage plan)
Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Benefit
Anticipated Price Negotiations
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) ushers in a transformative change for Medicare Part D by enabling unprecedented price negotiations for costly prescription drugs. This groundbreaking initiative addresses the issue of higher drug costs in the United States compared to other countries. When implemented in 2026, the Act will significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses for an estimated 9 million seniors, who currently face annual costs of up to $6,497 for these essential prescriptions.
A New Premium Structure
Anticipated premium structural changes in the IRA aim to enhance Part D affordability for seniors. These changes include a projected reduction in the average total Part D premium from $56.49 in 2023 to $55.50 in 2024. Additionally, the premium stabilization provision will limit annual base beneficiary premium increases to 6%, preventing steep hikes.
New Drug Tiers
In 2024, the catastrophic phase of Part D coverage will see significant changes, including the elimination of the 5% coinsurance requirement for Part D enrollees in this phase, capping out-of-pocket expenses for beneficiaries at $8,000. This change will lead to substantial savings, especially for those using high-cost medications.
New Cost-Sharing Requirements
The IRA already has made Part D more affordable by introducing cost-sharing reductions for insulin. The cap of monthly insulin cost-sharing at $35 for a month’s supply. The IRA also eliminated all cost-sharing for recommended adult vaccines — pneumonia, shingles, hepatitis B, and the flu shot. Now, people on Medicare no longer need to pay for vaccine coinsurance, deductibles, or copays.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Medicare Plan
When choosing a Medicare plan, several factors warrant consideration. These include the plan’s coverage for your specific healthcare needs, — prescription drugs, doctors, and hospitals. It’s important to consider costs, including premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses, as well as networks.
Ensure that your preferred healthcare providers are in-network and check the plan’s star rating for a quality score. Additionally, evaluate the plan’s coverage for additional benefits like dental, vision, and wellness programs and annual changes to the plan’s formulary or benefits.
Tips for Making the Most of The Medicare Enrollment Period
You can maximize the Medicare enrollment period by reviewing your current plan’s coverage and costs. Research alternative plans, considering factors like premiums, deductibles, and drug coverage to enhance suitability.
Use Medicare’s Plan Finder tool to compare options. Involve your healthcare providers to make sure they accept your chosen plan. Enroll early to avoid coverage gaps and take advantage of resources like Medicare counselors and brokers for assistance.
Work with A Medicare Specialist
Making informed decisions during the Medicare enrollment period is crucial for securing the appropriate healthcare coverage. Reach out to a Medicare specialist with Barnum Financial Group for assistance in assessing your options and optimal healthcare access. Contact us today!
