It’s not unusual for those covered under Medicare to spend a lot of money on prescription medication, even if they have coverage for this. Insurance companies have very little control over the prices drug companies set for their medications. Because of this, if a company charges a high rate for one of their drugs, those costs will be passed along to members. This is one of many reasons while many voters rank drug prices as a government policy issue that is important to them. In the meantime, there are a number of ways to lower the costs of prescription medication.
Medisupps.com is run by Russell Noga to provide people with a greater understanding of their Medicare Supplement Plans. The site focuses on finding plans that fit the needs of the individual based on what they need. They discuss and outline options and have helped thousands. So, they know a thing or two about reducing Medicare costs and have discussed how to lower them below.
First things first -the copays and coinsurance costs for a number of medications can be quite high, even if you’re enrolled in a Medicare HMO plan, Medicare Part D, or a private Medicare plan. These are some of the best ways to lower what you spend on prescription drugs. Take a look at Medisupps.com for available supplement plans.
First all, go over the medications you’re taking with your primary care provider. It’s possible that your doctor can help you to cut down on medications, which means you’ll spend less overall. If you’ve been taking expensive name-brand drugs, your doctor could potentially prescription you the generic versions of those medications instead. A generic drug must use the same active ingredients, be just as strong, and deliver the same effect.
You can also reach out to your private Medicare or Part D drug plan and see if it is possible to reduce your copay. If one or more of the medications you’re taking is in the highest tier, which means the copay will be quite high, you may be able to have your copay reduced if your doctor states that there is not an alternative medication that can serve your needs safely.
Take the time to look into the Extra Help program. This Medicaid administered program will pay for some or even all of your medication costs if you qualify. The level of assistance you receive will vary based on your assets and income. As of 2019, you may qualify if you receive up to $18,735 in annual income as a single adult or $25,365 in income for couples that are married and have up to $14,390 worth of assets or $28,720 for a couple. Through Extra Help, you’ll pay no more than $3.40 for generic medications and $8.50 for brand-name drugs that are covered. If your income is low enough, it’s possible that you’ll only be responsible for a portion of premiums and deductibles through your Medicare drug plan. If you are enrolled in Medicaid or are part of a Medicare Savings Program, you’ll automatically receive Extra Help. If you would like to apply online, you can do so here.
You should check to see if you are eligible for State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs. These programs are available in certain states and can help with drug costs. If you check Medicare.gov or reach out to the health insurance program in your state, you can learn more about available benefits. Alternatively, you can go to www.eldercare.gov or dial 1-800-677-1116.
There are also drug companies that will give individuals that are eligible a lowered price for certain medications.
Online pharmacies are another terrific option. The cost of drugs is typically much lower online. It’s an option that’s growing in popularity. In fact, a recent study found that 8% of people in the United States purchase drugs from other countries because the costs are more affordable. Of course, it’s important to buy medication from a pharmacy that is completely legitimate. You should also be aware that importing drugs from other countries is against the law, although currently, there is no one that has been prosecuted when importing medications for personal use. These are a few things to keep in mind.
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