Is Part D Part of Medicare?
Medicare Part D was created by the U.S. Congress under the Medicare Modernization Act. It was designed to help people with Medicare cover the cost of their prescription drugs, but it’s not an actual part of the existing Medicare program. Instead, insurance companies and other private companies – like Network Health Insurance Corporation – will seek approval from Medicare to offer specific Medicare Prescription Drug Plans containing Medicare Part D benefits.
In order for people with Medicare to receive this drug coverage, they must choose and enroll in a private plan approved by Medicare. Enrollment begins on November 15, 2008 and coverage will take effect January 1, 2009. Individual cost savings will vary, based on personal income level and drug usage.
Two plans provide combined medical and Medicare Part D prescription drug benefits:
- Network PlatinumSelect
Covers health care services both in- and out-of-network - and includes Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage with NO deductible - all for a $0 monthly plan premium. Learn more
- Network PlatinumPlus Pharmacy
The same benefits as Network PlatinumPlus, including $0 in-network hospital stays, and Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage with NO deductible. Learn more
- Network PlatinumPremier Pharmacy
The same health care benefits as Network PlatinumPremier, including $0 copay for in-network services, and Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage with NO deductible and NO coverage gap for generics. Learn more
One plan provides combined medical and Medicare Part D prescription drug benefits for people who have both Medicare and Wisconsin Medicaid:
- NetworkCares
A Special Needs Plan that offers health care services, prescription drug coverage, and supplemental benefits including Respite Care and Preventive Dental. There is a $0 monthly plan premium. Learn more