At a glance
Start with these three things.
Your coverage now
Confirm whether existing drug coverage is creditable.
Your timing
A gap in creditable coverage can lead to a penalty.
Your prescriptions
Compare medications, pharmacies, and total costs.
Your questions, unpacked
Prescription coverage: your questions, answered.
Look at the coverage you already have
Creditable prescription coverage is expected to pay, on average, at least as much as Medicare drug coverage. Your plan should tell you whether your coverage is creditable.
Do not assume that medical insurance automatically includes creditable drug coverage. Check the prescription benefit separately.
Understand the risk of a gap
After you are eligible, going 63 days or more in a row without Medicare drug coverage or other creditable prescription coverage may result in a late enrollment penalty if you enroll later.
The rules include exceptions, such as qualifying for Extra Help. Ask about your circumstances before making a decision.
Compare the whole prescription picture
When comparing drug plans, look at covered medications, dosage, pharmacy choice, premiums, and what you would pay when filling prescriptions.
If you choose Medicare Advantage, check whether the plan includes Part D and understand the rules before adding a separate drug plan.
Sources & further reading
Related guidance