Medicare

In 2003, Medicare added prescription drug coverage. It previously only offered hospital (Part A) and outpatient (Part B) coverage. The new prescription drug benefit is called Medicare Part D. Private companies manage Part D prescription drug plans while the government determines eligibility and enforces program rules. You generally have to pay premiums, deductibles, and copayments or co-insurance, but there is help available for many of those who can’t afford these costs. There are also special rules about people who are eligible for both Medi-Cal and Medicare. DB101’s Medicare section has more information on Part D.