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Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)

Affordable coverage for the medications you rely on

Medicare Part D helps cover the cost of prescription drugs, protecting you from high out-of-pocket expenses. Our team compares plans from multiple insurers to find the most cost-effective option for your specific medications and preferred pharmacies.

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Understanding Medicare Part D

The prescription coverage every Medicare beneficiary should consider

Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage through private insurance companies approved by Medicare. You can enroll in a standalone drug plan if you have Original Medicare—or get coverage built into a Medicare Advantage plan. While Part D is technically optional, skipping it can lead to a permanent late enrollment penalty if you don’t have other qualifying coverage. Even if you don’t currently take medications, enrolling in an affordable plan now can help you avoid penalties and ensure future peace of mind.

How Medicare Drug Plans Work

What to know before choosing your plan

Every Medicare Part D plan is different, but they all follow the same basic structure:

Formulary Coverage

Each plan has a list of covered drugs (called a formulary) organized into cost tiers. Generic medications are usually the most affordable, while brand-name or specialty drugs often cost more.

Costs & Deductibles

You’ll typically pay a monthly premium and an annual deductible (sometimes waived for generic drugs). After that, you pay copays or coinsurance for prescriptions based on their tier.

Coverage Phases

Part D plans have several stages throughout the year—initial coverage, the “coverage gap” or donut hole, and catastrophic coverage. We help you understand how these stages affect your total drug costs.

Pharmacy Networks

Costs can vary depending on where you fill your prescriptions. We’ll compare plans that work best with your preferred pharmacy or mail-order service.

Choosing the Right Part D Plan

Personalized comparisons based on your prescriptions

Selecting the best Medicare prescription drug plan isn’t about finding the cheapest premium—it’s about finding the plan that fits your actual medication list. At Triangle Medicare Solutions, we input your prescriptions into comparison software that checks every available Part D plan in your area. We’ll show you side-by-side results that include premiums, copays, pharmacy costs, and estimated annual spending. This process helps you see exactly which plan saves you the most money.


We’ll also review each plan’s formulary for coverage gaps, prior authorization requirements, or dosage limits. Whether your medications are common generics or complex specialty drugs, our goal is to make sure they’re covered at the lowest possible cost—all at no charge to you.


Ongoing Support for Your Prescription Coverage

Annual reviews and year-round assistance

Medicare Part D plans change every year—premiums, formularies, and pharmacy contracts can all shift. That’s why our advisors conduct annual reviews to ensure you’re still on the best plan for your needs. If we find a better fit during open enrollment, we’ll help you switch easily.


If you ever encounter issues at the pharmacy—like a drug unexpectedly not being covered—we’re here to help. We can contact your plan to request an exception or find an alternative medication. Our commitment doesn’t end at enrollment; we’re your ongoing resource for Medicare drug coverage support.

Medicare Part D FAQ

Answers to common prescription coverage questions

  • What does a Medicare Part D plan cost?

    Part D plan premiums vary by company and coverage level, typically ranging from about $10 to $100 per month. You may also have a deductible and copays based on your prescription tiers. Some plans include $0 copays for generics at preferred pharmacies. We’ll help you compare total costs, not just premiums, to find the most affordable plan overall.

  • Is there a penalty for skipping Part D?

    Yes. If you go more than 63 days without creditable prescription coverage after becoming eligible, Medicare adds a 1% penalty of the national base premium (about $35 in 2025) for each month you delay enrollment. That penalty lasts as long as you have Medicare. Enrolling early can save you money over time.

  • Do I need Part D if I don’t take medications?

    It’s still a smart idea. Even if you’re healthy today, having a Part D plan protects you from future penalties and unexpected drug costs. Some plans are very inexpensive and act as a safeguard for when you do need prescriptions later.

  • Can I change my Part D plan?

    Yes. You can review and switch plans every year during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15–December 7). Because plans often change formularies and pricing, we recommend reviewing your coverage annually to ensure you’re still getting the best deal.

  • Do all Part D plans cover the same drugs?

    No. Each plan decides which medications it covers and what you’ll pay for them. Most plans cover common prescriptions, but coverage for certain brand-name or specialty drugs can vary. We compare plan formularies to make sure your specific prescriptions are included before you enroll.