Medicare Basics for Caregivers

Frequently Asked Questions

14. What payments does a person make in a Medicare drug plan?

If a person joins a Medicare drug plan he or she usually pays a separate monthly fee, or premium, in addition to the Part B premium. If someone belongs to a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO) or a Medicare Cost Plan that includes Medicare prescription drug coverage, the monthly premium may include an amount for prescription drug coverage. The amount of the monthly premium isn't affected by the person's health status or how many prescriptions he or she uses. (Answer continues on next page.)