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Our guide to the best Medicare Part D plans and providers explores the pros and cons of the various companies active in the market. As a general rule of thumb, the higher the tier, the higher the copayments. Tier 1: Generic prescription drugs Tier 2: Preferred, brand-name prescription drugs Tier 3: Non-preferred, brand-name prescription drugs Speciality Tier (Tier 4): High-cost prescription drugs. To help simplify matters, Medicare Part D coverage is split into four categories: The cost of a Medicare Part D plan is affected by things such as the prescription drugs you use, how much they cost, which company manufacturers them, and where you source them from. As when choosing from among the best health insurance companies, where you live may also impact your choices. If you’re eligible for Part D coverage, the three main considerations you’re likely to make are your current health, budget, and any medicine you take. The best Medicare Part D providers include AARP, Humana Medicare Rx, WellCare, and Cigna-HealthSpring. If you’re uncertain whether a Medicare prescription drugs plan is relevant to you, read our sections on 'Should I get a Medicare Part D plan?' and 'Who is Eligible for Medicare Part D?' to learn more. Roughly 70% of Americans signed up for Medicare supplement with a Part D plan, and the federal government actively encourages those who are eligible to sign up. The best Medicare Part D plans not only help you manage the cost of prescription drugs, they also play a role in ensuring medicines stay affordable and they can protect against future price hikes.
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