You need Medicare Part D if you want prescription drug coverage since Original Medicare and most Medigap plans don’t cover medications. Even if you don’t take prescriptions now, enrolling when first eligible helps you avoid late penalties and ensures coverage if you need it later. If you have other drug coverage, like from an employer or VA benefits, you may not need Part D.

You can check if your prescriptions are covered by reviewing your Part D plan’s formulary, which is a list of covered drugs available on the insurer’s website or in your plan materials. Use the Medicare Plan Finder on Medicare.gov to compare plans or speak with a licensed insurance broker and see if your medications are included. If your drug isn’t covered, you may need to switch plans during open enrollment or ask your doctor about alternatives.

Yes, you can change your Part D plan during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) from October 15 to December 7 each year. If you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)—such as moving to a new area or losing other drug coverage—you may be able to switch outside of AEP. Changes take effect on January 1 of the following year, or the first of the month after your special enrollment request is approved.