Take time to consider all of your choices for prescription drug coverage before making a decision. This may include looking at the prescription drug coverage you already have, like coverage from an employer or union, TRICARE, the Department of Veteran’s Affairs, the Indian Health Service, or a Medigap policy. Compare it to Medicare prescription drug coverage. The prescription drug coverage you already have may change as a result of Medicare prescription drug coverage, so it is important to consider all of your coverage options.

Medicare drug plans vary in which drugs are covered, what your out-of-pocket costs will be, and which pharmacies you can use. Comparing plans based on coverage, cost, and convenience can help you decide which plan meets your needs.

• Coverage-Medicare drug plans cover generic and brand-name drugs. All plans must cover the same categories of drugs, but plans can choose what specific drugs are covered in each drug category.
• Cost -Plans have different monthly premiums, and what you pay for each prescription varies depending on which plan you choose. If you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for extra help from Medicare paying your drug plan costs.
• Convenience-Check with the plan to make sure the pharmacies in the plan are convenient to you. Some plans also allow you to get your prescriptions through the mail. If you spend part of the year in another state, see if the plan will cover you there.