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The Best Medicare Part D Plans in Stockport, Ohio 2024

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Understanding the details of Part D is crucial for those nearing 65 or currently on Medicare, as it can help you avoid unnecessary costs and anxiety. Connie Health gathered the Medicare Part D prescription drug plan costs and coverage information that matters most to you.

Continue reading to discover eligibility requirements, coverage, costs, the best Medicare Part D plan options in Stockport, how to enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan, and the Extra Help program.

2024 Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Facts for Stockport

What is Medicare Part D?

Medicare Part D is a voluntary health insurance program the federal government runs to assist Medicare recipients with covering the costs of their prescription drugs. Although private insurers offer these plans, they are overseen by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

Part D mainly covers outpatient prescription drugs, while Original Medicare Parts A and B handle most inpatient medication needs.

Through Medicare Part D, people with Medicare can access various prescription drugs, ensuring they receive the necessary medications without the total financial burden falling on their shoulders.

Who is Eligible for Medicare Part D?

When exploring Medicare Part D coverage, you have two main pathways depending on your existing Medicare coverage.

1. Medicare Part D with Original Medicare (Part A and B)

If you've already signed up for Original Medicare Parts A and B, you can join a separate Medicare Part D plan specifically for prescription drugs. Often, people enhance this setup with a Medicare Supplement plan for additional coverage.

Learn more about Medicare Supplement plans in Stockport, Ohio.

2. Medicare Part D with Medicare Advantage Plans

For those enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B, there's an option to enroll in a Medicare Part C plan, commonly known as Medicare Advantage. These plans are required to offer the same level of coverage as Original Medicare and might include extra features like dental, vision, and hearing services.

Most Medicare Advantage plans come bundled with a Part D prescription drug plan, a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MAPD) plan. When considering a Medicare Part C plan, review its formulary to verify that your medications are covered at an affordable price.

It's crucial to understand that once you choose a Medicare Advantage plan, you typically can't enroll in a separate stand-alone Medicare Part D plan—except in specific situations. Some Medicare Advantage plans do not include drug coverage, so choose a plan that meets your needs.

Learn more about Medicare Advantage plans in Stockport, Ohio.

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Medicare Part D Coverage in Stockport

Medicare Part D plans offer varied coverage but must include a comprehensive range of prescription drugs that most beneficiaries might need. Each Part D plan must offer at least a couple of medications from most drug categories and cover all medications within certain protected classes. These protected classes include:

Medicare Part D plans typically cover most vaccines that Original Medicare Part B does not.

Drug Plan Formulary List

Each Medicare Part D plan has its list of covered medications known as a “formulary." Reviewing this list to ensure your prescriptions are covered before enrolling is crucial. If you are enrolled and your specific drug is missing from the formulary, you have several options, including requesting an exception, paying out-of-pocket, or filing an appeal.

Remember that Medicare drug plans can update their formularies; changes might occur due to Medicare directives, advancements in drug therapies, the introduction of new medications, or new medical insights. Consequently, reviewing your Part D plan’s coverage annually is prudent. The best time to review your plan is during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period that runs from October 15th through December 7th annually.

Understanding Drug Plan Tiers

Within a plan’s formulary are different coverage levels known as "tiers," each with varying costs. Drugs in lower tiers usually have lower copayments than those in higher tiers.

Here's a typical example of Medicare Part D plan tiers, though they can differ between plans:

When evaluating your medication choices, consider opting for generic drugs. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) assures that generics are equivalent to brand-name drugs in dosage, safety, strength, administration route, quality, performance characteristics, and intended use. Thus, choosing generics can lead to significant cost savings without compromising effectiveness.

Medicare Part D Costs in Stockport

When you sign up for Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage, you can encounter various costs such as premiums, annual deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. These expenses can vary based on your chosen plan and the medications you require.

Understanding the Medicare Part D Premium

Most Medicare Part D plans have a monthly premium fee, although some offer a $0 premium option. The cost can change annually, making it crucial to review your plan each year to ensure the coverage and costs meet your budget needs. Premiums are established with the approval of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), and they can differ depending on your selected plan.

Medicare Part D Stand-Alone Plan Premiums

For 2024, CMS has set the national average premium for stand-alone Medicare Part D plans at $55.50. The average monthly Medicare Part D premium in Stockport is $59.03. That’s a difference of $3.53 between the national average and Stockport average premium.

However, your monthly payment will depend on your specific plan selection. Medicare Part D premiums in Stockport, Ohio range from $0.00 to $108.80.

Medicare Part D within a Medicare Advantage Plan

If you choose a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) that includes drug coverage (or Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan), your prescription drug premium will be bundled with your Medicare Advantage premium. You can have this premium deducted from your Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board payments or receive a direct bill. Ensure you communicate your billing preferences with your plan, as it may take a few months to start.

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High-Income Premium Adjustments (Medicare Part D IRMAA)

High-income earners may face an additional premium known as the Medicare Part D Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). This extra amount is based on your tax return from two years prior. You might be eligible to appeal this adjustment if you’ve experienced a significant life change affecting your income.

Review the table below to determine if you’ll pay a Medicare Part D IRMAA.

Medicare Part D IRMAA Table

If your filing status and yearly income in 2022 was:

File individual tax return File joint tax return File married & separate tax return You pay each month (2024)
$103,000 or less $206,000 or less $103,000 or less Your plan premium
above $103,000 up to $129,000 above $206,000 up to $258,000 Not applicable $12.90 + your plan premium
above $129,000 up to $161,000 above $258,000 up to $322,000 Not applicable $33.30 + your plan premium
above $161,000 up to $193,000 above $322,000 up to $386,000 Not applicable $53.80 + your plan premium
above $193,000 and less than $500,000 above $386,000 and less than $750,000 above $103,000 and less than $397,000 $74.20 + your plan premium
$500,000 or above $750,000 or above $397,000 or above $81.00 + your plan premium

Medicare Part D Annual Deductible

Most Medicare Part D plans include an annual deductible, which you must pay out-of-pocket before your plan starts covering your prescriptions. For 2024, the maximum deductible is $545.00, as determined by CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services). Some plans offer a $0 deductible, and others might cover specific medications before reaching the deductible threshold. The Annual Drug Deductible in Stockport can range from $0 - $545. The average Medicare Part D deductible in Stockport is $401.14 annually.

Copayments and Coinsurance with Medicare Part D

After meeting your deductible, your plan will begin sharing costs. Copayments or coinsurance are your share of the prescription cost, with the plan covering the rest. These costs can fluctuate due to changes in drug prices or newly available generic options. Opting for generics at preferred pharmacies can significantly reduce your expenses.

Navigating the Part D Coverage Gap (Donut Hole)

Most Medicare Part D plans have a coverage gap, often called the "donut hole." You enter this gap in 2024 once total drug spending (including deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments) reaches $5,030.00. You'll pay no more than 25% of the drug costs during this period. The full price of brand-name drugs counts towards getting out of the gap, while only what you pay for generics applies to your out-of-pocket limit.

Exiting the Coverage Gap and Catastrophic Coverage

Once you spend $8,000.00 out-of-pocket in 2024, you'll reach the catastrophic coverage threshold, after which you won't incur additional costs for prescriptions for the rest of the year. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, starting in 2025, the maximum annual out-of-pocket expense for those with Medicare Part D will be limited to $2,000. Beneficiaries with Part D Extra Help won’t enter the coverage gap.

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Medicare Part D Extra Help Program in Stockport

Unlock Savings with Extra Help

The Medicare Extra Help program is designed to assist those with limited income and assets by significantly lowering their Part D prescription drug plan costs. If you qualify, you won't face a coverage gap; you’ll avoid the Part D late enrollment penalty and benefit from reduced premiums and deductibles.

2024 Extra Help Benefits at a Glance

Should you be eligible for Medicare Part D Extra Help in 2024, you'll enjoy $0 costs for plan premiums and deductibles. Generic prescriptions will cost at most $4.50 for a month's supply. At the same time, brand-name drugs will be capped at $11.20 for the same period.

Extra Help Automatic Qualification

Specific individuals automatically receive Medicare Part D Extra Help if they have full Medicaid, receive state assistance for Part B premiums (Medicare Savings Programs), or obtain Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits from Social Security. If you are automatically enrolled, you'll receive a notification letter regarding your Extra Help benefits

Who Should Consider Applying for Part D Extra Help?

To qualify for Part D Extra Help, most people must be within specified income and resource limits. These limits can vary by year, so staying informed is essential.

2024 Medicare Part D Extra Help Income and Resource Limits

Your situation: Income limit: Resource limit:
Individual $22,590 $17,220
Married couple $30,660 $34,360

Preparing to Apply for Part D Extra Help

If you fit the income and resource criteria, you'll need the following documents for yourself and your spouse:

Once these documents are ready, contact a local licensed Connie Health agent to assess your Part D Extra Help eligibility and guide you through the application process.

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Best Medicare Part D Plans in Stockport

The ideal Medicare Part D prescription drug plan varies based on individual circumstances, such as the medications you take, your preferred pharmacy, and your financial situation. It's important to review each plan's drug list (formulary) and how they price their prescriptions. A local licensed agent from Connie Health can guide you through the available options in your area, ensuring you select a plan that aligns with your healthcare needs and budget.

Medicare Part D Enrollment Periods

Managing your Medicare Part D enrollment can be straightforward. You can sign up during your Initial Enrollment Period or a Special Enrollment Period. Enrolling within these timeframes is vital to avoid lifetime late enrollment penalties, emphasizing the importance of timing.

Relax, though—if you need to tweak your prescription drug plan, you can do so during the Annual Enrollment Period or, for those with a Medicare Advantage plan, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. Keep reading to familiarize yourself with these pivotal times.

First-Time Enrollment in Medicare Part D

Initial Enrollment Period

Your golden opportunity to join Medicare Part D or a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan unfolds during your seven-month Initial Enrollment Period. This period begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes your birth month, and extends three months beyond. This is when you first qualify for Medicare.

Connie Health Birthday Graphic

Special Enrollment Period

Special Enrollment Periods grant an alternative path to enrolling in Medicare Part D beyond your Initial Enrollment Period. If you retire, lose employer drug coverage, or relocate outside your plan's service area, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period.

Typically lasting 60 days, a Special Enrollment Period might begin the month after you retire or lose creditable employer insurance, whichever occurs first. Avoid late enrollment penalties by signing up during this window if you lose creditable coverage. Call and speak with a local licensed Connie Health agent if you’re unsure whether you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Connie Health Special Enrollment Period

Understanding Late Enrollment Penalties

Should you postpone enrolling in Medicare Part D, it's crucial to have creditable prescription drug coverage through sources like your or your spouse's employer or union. You could incur a late enrollment penalty for Medicare drug coverage without it.

Enrolling in Medicare Part D or a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan outside your Initial or Special Enrollment Period could trigger a Part D late enrollment penalty. This penalty can elevate your monthly premium for the duration of your Medicare drug coverage unless you qualify for Part D Extra Help.

Changing Your Medicare Part D Plan

Annual Enrollment Period

Adjusting your Part D plan is possible during the Annual Enrollment Period, also known as the Medicare Open Enrollment Period, which runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. During this window, you can join, drop, or switch Part D or Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plans.

Annual Enrollment Period Connie Health

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period

The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period occurs annually from January 1 to March 31. Note this timeframe if you're currently in a Medicare Advantage plan. If enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to a different Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan or move to Original Medicare. If you move back to Original Medicare with a stand-alone Medicare Part D plan, you may want to explore enrolling in a Medicare Supplement plan (Medigap).

Annual Enrollment medicare advantage Connie Health

How to Sign Up for Medicare Part D

Choosing a Medicare Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan that aligns with your budget and covers your medications is crucial. There are several ways to enroll for Medicare prescription drug coverage.

You can select a plan via Medicare's website, consult with a representative from a local SHIP, enroll directly with an insurance provider, or use the services of an insurance broker or agent. With various options available, we encourage you to contact a local licensed Connie Health agent to discuss your Medicare prescription requirements.

With Connie Health, you can compare prescription drug plans online or by meeting with a licensed Connie Health agent in your area. A local licensed agent can review your Part D plan options with you over the phone, face-to-face at a location of your choice, or through a video call, based on your preference. When reviewing plans with Connie Health, we ensure your medications are included in the formulary and assist you in estimating your prescription drug costs.

To set up an appointment or explore your Medicare Part D plan options online, call 1-888-282-98831-888-282-9883.

Why Connie Health

Local licensed insurance agents: Independent agents, who live and work in your community, can help you access the best care for you in your area.

Compare all major insurance: Our technology will help you find the plan that best fits your budget and health needs.

Our service is free: You receive unbiased advice since our agents receive the same commission regardless of the insurance plan selected.

Ongoing support: Once you have selected an insurance plan, your dedicated team will help you use your benefits and answer your questions.

Need help deciding the right Medicare Coverage for you?

Connie Health Support

Free unbaised service

Connie Health Compare

Compare all major plans and carriers

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Local licensed insurance agents with 25+ years of experience

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Medicare Part D?

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How does Medicare Part D work?

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What is the best Medicare Part D for all 50 states?

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Best Medicare Part D plans?

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How do I know if I have Medicare Part D?

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How much is Medicare Part D?

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What does Medicare Part D cover?

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What drugs are covered by Medicare Part D?

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Who is eligible for Medicare Part D?

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How to apply for Medicare Part D?

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How do I apply for Medicare Part D?

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How to sign up for Medicare Part D?

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How long does the Medicare Part D penalty last?

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Does Medicare Part D cover weight loss drugs?

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Does Medicare Part D cover Wegovy?

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How much does Eliquis cost with Medicare Part D?

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Does Medicare Part D cover Eliquis?

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Does Medicare Part D cover the RSV vaccine?

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Does Medicare Advantage include Part D?

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Does Medicare Part D cover Mounjaro?

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Does Medicare Part D cover the shingles vaccine?

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How much does Medicare Part D cost per month?

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Does Amazon Pharmacy take Medicare Part D?

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How do I compare Medicare Part D plans in Stockport, Ohio?

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Where can I get more information about Medicare Part D plans in Stockport, Ohio?

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Medicare Part D plans may be available in the following zip codes in the Stockport, Ohio. 43787

Sources:

“Apply for Medicare Part D Extra Help program.” SSA.gov.

“Catastrophic coverage.” Medicare.gov.

“Copayment/coinsurance in drug plans.” Medicare.gov.

“Costs for Medicare drug coverage.” Medicare.gov.

“Costs in the coverage gap.” Medicare.gov.

“Fact sheet - 2024 Medicare costs.” Medicare.gov.

“Help with drug costs.” Medicare.gov.

“Monthly premium for drug plans.” Medicare.gov.

“What Is Medicare Part D?” NCOA.org.

“What Medicare Part D drug plans cover.” Medicare.gov.

“Yearly deductible for drug plans.” Medicare.gov.

Last updated: December 9, 2024

Connie Health company logo

Speak to a licensed agent (M-F 9am - 5pm)

1-888-282-9883 (TTY:711) 1-888-282-9883 (TTY:711)