Medicare Part D is the part of Medicare that provides insurance coverage for most prescription drugs. Understanding how drug coverage works is important since some medications are covered under Part A or Part B instead. Here’s a breakdown of when each part applies.
Inpatient Prescription Drug Coverage – Medicare Part A
If you are admitted to a hospital or medical facility, all medications provided during your stay are covered under Medicare Part A. For safety reasons, hospitals do not allow you to bring your own medications—everything is administered and billed through the facility.
Medicare Part B Prescription Medications
Drugs administered by a medical professional in a clinical setting typically fall under Medicare Part B. Examples include:
Infusions and injections.
Medications used with durable medical equipment, such as nebulizers or infusion pumps.
Certain oral cancer drugs and oral anti-nausea drugs linked to chemotherapy.
Some self-administered drugs in outpatient settings.
Injectable osteoporosis drugs under specific conditions.
If you have a Medicare Supplement, Part B costs may also be covered.
Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans
Medicare Part D covers prescriptions you typically pick up at the pharmacy and take on your own at home. These include:
Common maintenance drugs (blood pressure, cholesterol, etc.).
Biologics and specialty medications.
Insulin and related medical supplies.
Certain vaccines.
This is the coverage most beneficiaries rely on to help lower the cost of ongoing prescriptions.
For more details about how Medicare Part D works, read our complete guide here.
Ready to explore your options? Use this link to shop Medicare Part D plans now and find the plan that fits your needs.
