How Can Seniors Save on Prescription Drug Costs?

How Medicare Part D Can Help Save on Prescription Drug Costs

Medicare Part D is the primary prescription drug coverage for Medicare beneficiaries. In 2025, a landmark change took effect: the out-of-pocket maximum for Part D was capped at $2,000 per year. This means no Medicare beneficiary will pay more than $2,000 out-of-pocket for covered drugs in a plan year - a major improvement from previous years when catastrophic drug costs had no cap.

How Much Do Drugs Cost With Medicare Part D?

How Discount Programs Can Help Save on Prescription Drug Costs

• GoodRx - Free discount card, sometimes beats Part D prices for generics

• RxSaver - Comparison tool for local pharmacy prices

• NeedyMeds - Connects patients with manufacturer patient assistance programs

• Extra Help (Low Income Subsidy) - Federal program reducing Part D costs for low-income beneficiaries

• State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs) - State programs supplementing Part D

Comparing Medicare Part D and Prescription Discount Programs

For expensive brand-name drugs, Part D is almost always better due to the $2,000 annual cap. For inexpensive generics, discount programs like GoodRx can sometimes offer lower prices than your Part D copay. You cannot use GoodRx and Part D simultaneously for the same prescription - choose whichever is cheaper for each medication.

Limitations of Prescription Drug Discount Programs

• Discount program purchases don't count toward your Part D out-of-pocket maximum

• Discount programs don't provide the same legal protections as insurance

• Prices vary by pharmacy and can change without notice

• Manufacturer coupons typically cannot be used with Medicare

Frequently Asked Questions