Explore our Medicare "frequently asked questions," and learn more about this new prescription drug benefit for seniors.
What is the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit?
Medicare Part D is prescription medication coverage provided through private companies to cover the cost of brand and generic prescription medication. Everyone with Medicare is eligible for the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit.
If you qualify for Medicare, you may choose from a wide array of plans to find the prescription drug plan that's right for you.
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How do Medicare Part D payments work?
Like other insurance plans, you will pay a monthly premium for prescriptions. This premium varies by plan and by your yearly deductible. You will also pay a portion of the cost of your prescription, depending on your plan.
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When should I enroll in Medicare Part D?
You can sign up when you first become eligible for Medicare. If you do not sign up when you are first eligible, you may pay a penalty.
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I'm already enrolled in Medicare prescription drug coverage — when can I switch plans?
If you currently have Medicare prescription drug coverage, you should review your coverage each year in the fall. You may want to switch Medicare prescription drug plans if another plan matches your needs better. Generally, you can only switch plans from Nov. 15 through Dec. 31 of each year.
In certain situations, you may be able to change plans at other times of the year.
Such situations include:
- If you move out of the service area of the plan you are in
- If you have both Medicare and Medicaid
- If you live in, or move into or out of an institution (such as a nursing home)
- If you have other prescription medication coverage that's as good as or better than Medicare Part D, and that coverage ends
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How else can I save on prescription drugs?
Talk to your doctor about the medications you are currently taking to find out if there is a generic brand available. Giant Eagle® now offers over 400 generic prescriptions for $4. Learn more about our $4 generic prescription program.
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Are there certain drugs that aren't generic, but are eligible for discounts if I'm enrolled in Medicare Part D?
Yes. Your Giant Eagle Pharmacy® offers seniors competitive pricing on the following benzodiazepine prescriptions.
| Antianxiety |
Brand |
| Alprazolam 0.25mg Tab |
Xanax® |
| Alprazolam 0.5mg Tab |
Xanax® |
| Alprazolam 1mg Tab |
Xanax® |
| Diazepam 5mg Tab |
Valium® |
| Lorazepam 0.5mg Tab |
Ativan® |
| Lorazepam 1mg Tab |
Ativan® |
| Sedative |
Brand |
| Temazepam 15mg Cap |
Restoril® |
| Temazepam 30mg Cap |
Restoril® |
Plus, we will match competitors' prices on ANY prescription.*
*Applies to retail competitors within a 5-mile radius and excludes mail and online orders.
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Where can I turn if I have any other questions about Medicare Part D?
For more information about Medicare and the Prescription Medication Benefit, please visit www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-633-4227.
If you have limited income and resources you may be eligible for extra help. Visit www.socialsecurity.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).
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