Medicare Part D Plans: Do They Cover Chemotherapy Drugs?

​Medicare Part D, the prescription drug coverage that comes with Medicare, doesn't cover all cancer drugs. If your doctor prescribes a cancer drug not covered by Medicare Part B, your Part D plan may cover it. You can use a Medicare drug plan comparison tool or contact your state's Medicaid office for more information on drug coverage and eligibility.

What is Medicare Part D?
Medicare Part D is a prescription drug coverage that you can use when enrolled in a Medicare health plan. A private company offers a Medicare Advantage plan. 

These plans are marketed to seniors because they promise to cover many of the drugs you'll need when you're on Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans can also cover certain medications.

Is Chemotherapy Drug Coverage Included in Part D Plans?
Medicare Part D plans do include coverage of some chemotherapy drugs. These medications are administered to the cancer patient and used to treat or control cancer symptoms, prevent cancer or kill or slow cancer growth. 

Some chemotherapy drugs are also given for off-label uses. For example, it stimulates the immune system or slows the growth of cells damaged by chemotherapy. If your doctor prescribes any of these medications, you can count on your Medicare Part D plan to pay for them.

In addition, some Medicare Part D plans cover rituximab, a drug given to treat certain blood cancers. 

Who Qualifies for Medicare Part D
People who are 65 or older and disabled. People with a family income of less than $85,000 for individuals or $170,000 for a family of four. 

Health insurers, drug stores, and other companies selling Medicare Part D prescription drug plans contract with the federal government. It helps patients enroll in these plans and assist in managing their prescriptions. 

While some companies offer only Medicare prescription drug plans, others, including drug stores, also sell Medicare Advantage plans that typically cover most if not all prescription drug costs for Medicare patients.

Conclusion
It's important to have cancer treatments covered under your plan's network, especially if they're used to treat advanced stages of the disease. This plan can help to avoid not only paying high out-of-pocket costs, but also potentially missing out on treatment.

At the Medicare Supplement Store, we put our clients first by offering them policies that they can afford. Having insurance is a necessity nowadays, and we're here to help you out. Learn more about our products and services by calling our agency at (732) 252-8828. You can also request a free quote by CLICKING HERE.