The Coverage Gap is the third stage of coverage in a Medicare Part D plan. Unless a plan provides some coverage in this stage, members are responsible for paying 100% of their drug costs while they are in this stage. They must also continue to pay their monthly plan premiums.
There are several ways that Medicare Part D members can get the most value for their Medicare dollar and, at the same time, delay their entry into the Medicare Part D Coverage Gap:
- Switch to generic drugs or to lower-cost brand-name drugs.
- Use mail order for both brand-name and generic drugs taken on an ongoing basis. With mail order, Medicare Part D members can get up to a 90-day supply of medication for one low co-payment.
Medicare Part D members can save the most by combining these two options. This can result in up to a 38 percent savings on prescriptions.*
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Thirty-eight percent represents the average annual savings after meeting the applicable deductible, if any, according to a Pharmaceutical Care Management Association (PCMA) press release, September 7, 2006. Savings do not include a member's monthly premium. |
Your Guide to Part D:
HEALTHY NEST EGG
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Click here for tips on lowering your drug costs >> |
General Part D Information
Learn about the Medicare Part D benefit:
- What is Medicare Part D?
- Who is eligible for Medicare Part D?
- What are the different Medicare Part D plan options?
- How can I save more and delay the Coverage Gap longer?
- What do I need to know about prescription safety?
- Where can I find other useful resources?
My Current Situation
Get information for your specific circumstances:
