Express Scripts explains the stages of Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage.
Deductible Stage: You pay the full cost of your medications overtime until you reach your deductible. Some plans have no deductible however plans with the deductible may have lower co-pays and overall costs.
Initial Coverage Stage: You pay a copay or coinsurance for your prescription drugs and your plan pays the rest. The amount you pay depends on the drug tier of your medicine. The higher tier, the more you will pay. Generic drugs are usually tier one or two.
Coverage Gap Stage: Also known as the donut hole. Avoid this stage by taking generic drugs and by using a preferred pharmacy or home delivery. You will pay more for your prescription drugs until you reach an amount set by Medicare.
Catastrophic Coverage Stage: You pay a small amount for your prescription drugs for the rest of the year.
Each year on January 1st, you start over and the amounts set by Medicare often change.
For information about Medicare Part D, visit .
To enroll in Medicare Part D, visit