What type of costs do Medicare Part D plans primarily cover?

Medicare Part D plans are specifically designed to provide coverage for prescription drugs. This program was created to help beneficiaries afford their medications, which are often a significant expense for those with chronic health conditions or who require ongoing treatment. By enrolling in a Medicare Part D plan, beneficiaries can gain access to a wide range of prescription medications at a lower cost, depending on the formulary of the plan and various cost-sharing structures, such as premiums, deductibles, and co-pays.

Hospital stays, routine check-ups, and long-term care are not covered under Medicare Part D. These services fall under other parts of Medicare; for instance, Medicare Part A covers hospital stays, and Medicare Part B generally covers outpatient care, including routine check-ups. Long-term care typically is not covered by Medicare at all and requires separate planning and potentially other insurance options. Therefore, the focus of Medicare Part D is on ensuring that beneficiaries have access to necessary prescription medications, making it a vital component of the Medicare program.