Part D

Since implementation in 2006, millions of Medicare beneficiaries have gained access to affordable prescription drug coverage through Part D. Under Part D, drug manufacturers and insurance providers negotiate directly to achieve substantial rebates and the lowest possible price for medications.

The savings achieved through open-market negotiations are then passed on to beneficiaries in the form of reduced premiums and low prices. As a result, Part D basic premiums have continuously decreased over the past years. This competitive structure, void of government intervention, provides beneficiaries with not only savings but choice. Each year, beneficiaries can shop around to find the coverage that works best for them.

Medicare Part D’s ability to keep drug costs low has expanded access to medications and increased adherence to treatments. This ultimately helps patients avoid complications or costly hospitalizations, creating even more savings for Medicare. Patients’ ability to manage their health through the Part D program has led to a reduction in the elderly mortality by 2.2 percent annually since 2006, saving the program nearly $5 billion per year.

To learn more about the Part D program’s success click here.

Seniors Approve

Since its creation, Medicare Today has monitored Part D’s impact on seniors through our annual Senior Satisfaction Survey.  Seniors have consistently reported high satisfaction with the Part D program.

In fact, nearly 9 in 10 seniors enrolled in Part D are satisfied with their coverage and over 80 percent of seniors think their Part D plan is a good value. Additionally, seniors consistently say their plans are convenient to use and over 80 percent believe that their plan works well and without hassle.

For additional facts about senior satisfaction visit our survey archive page. For more resources on Medicare Part D visit Seniors Speak Out.

State Resources

Interested in knowing more about Part D in your state? Visit our State-by-State page to learn about how the program is helping beneficiaries in your area.

Key Facts

Nearly 9 out of 10 seniors are satisfied with their Part D coverage.

Since the implementation of Part D, the elderly mortality rate has dropped 2.2 percent annually.