What is the difference between Medicare Advantage prescription drug (MAPD) coverage and prescription drug plan (PDP) coverage?
Medicare Advantage plans that offer prescription drug coverage are known as MAPD plans and offer Medicare Part A, Part B, and Part D benefits, whereas PDPs are stand-alone plans and offer only prescription drug coverage (Part D benefits). In general, MAPD plans have all the same requirements (beneficiary protections, appeals, and grievances, bidding) as PDPs. However, MAPD plans can use Medicare payment funds for Part A and Part B to “buy down” the cost of Part D benefits. That’s why Medicare Advantage organizations can frequently offer Medicare basic drug coverage at little to no monthly drug premium.
Related Questions
- What is the difference between Medicare Advantage prescription drug (MA-PD) coverage and prescription drug plan (PDP) coverage?
- Is there really any difference between a Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan and a Medicare Advantage Plan?
- Who may be a Prescription Drug Plan (PDP Sponsor) for Medicare Drug coverage?
