How Part D works
Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D) is optional outpatient prescription coverage sold by private plans. If you have Original Medicare, you typically add a standalone drug plan. Many Medicare Advantage plans include this drug coverage. Covered drugs, pharmacies, tiers, prior approval, and costs vary by plan.
Drug coverage Medicare treats as at least as good as Part D. If you have it, you can usually delay Part D without a late penalty. Ask the plan to put that in writing. Delaying Part B depends on group coverage from current work, not this label. and penalties
If you go 63 days or more without For Part D, coverage Medicare treats as at least as good as standard drug coverage. That can let you delay Part D without a late penalty. Part B delay depends on group coverage from current work. Get either answer in writing. prescription coverage after you are eligible, you may face a lifetime late enrollment penalty. Employer, VA, or other coverage may be For Part D, coverage Medicare treats as at least as good as standard drug coverage. That can let you delay Part D without a late penalty. Part B delay depends on group coverage from current work. Get either answer in writing. — confirm with the plan sponsor.
Part D in 2027
For an explanation of the changes to Medicare prescription drug coverage for 2027, including the annual out-of-pocket threshold and deductible, read Medicare Part D in 2027.
Basic and enhanced drug plans
Some stand-alone drug plans add coverage beyond the standard Part D benefit. The California list shows which 2027 plans are basic and which are enhanced. That list does not include 2026 plans.
Review without oversharing
My Medicare Checkup asks only about the general level of prescription use. It does not request medication names, dosages, or other protected health information. A licensed agent can review specific drugs later in a compliant conversation if you choose to share them.