Understanding Medicare Part D Changes for 2027
Important Information for Medicare Beneficiaries
What’s Changing in 2027?
The temporary Medicare Part D premium stabilization subsidies are ending after 2026. As a result, some Medicare beneficiaries may see changes to their standalone Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) premiums and coverage options in 2027. [kff.org], [cms.gov]
Annual Out-of-Pocket Maximum Increases
- 2026 Maximum: $2,100
- 2027 Maximum: $2,400
Once your total out-of-pocket costs for covered Part D medications reach $2,400, your Part D plan pays 100% of covered prescription drug costs for the remainder of the calendar year.
Part D Deductible Increases
- 2026 Maximum Deductible: $615
- 2027 Maximum Deductible: $700
Depending on your plan, you may need to pay up to the deductible amount before drug coverage begins.
What Is NOT Changing
You still have important protections under Medicare Part D:
- Annual limit on prescription drug spending ($2400 cap on covered medications)
- $0 cost sharing after reaching the annual out-of-pocket maximum
- $0 cost sharing for most Medicare Part D-covered adult vaccines
- Insulin cost-sharing protections
- Medicare Prescription Payment Plan option to spread drug costs throughout the year
Why It’s More Important Than Ever to Review Your Drug Plan
Insurance companies may respond to higher costs by making changes to:
- Monthly premiums
- Drug formularies
- Drug tiers
- Preferred pharmacies
- Prior authorization requirements
- Step therapy requirements
A plan that worked well in 2026 may not be the best option for 2027.
What should you do?
During Annual Enrollment (October 15 – December 7), we recommend:
- Review your current prescription drug plan on the Medicare website
- Compare your existing plan to all available plans in your area
- Verify that your medications remain covered
- Check your preferred pharmacy pricing
- Screen for Extra Help and other cost-saving programs
- Exploring the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan if applicable
Using discount programs in addition to your Part D Drug plan.
We do not recommend going without a Part D Drug plan, however some of the medications prescribed may be less expensive using a separate discount program. These are not considered insurance coverage, rather they provide discount coupons to obtain medications at a discounted rate.
Below are some Additional Prescription Drug Savings Resources that may be used if a medication is not covered (or covered favorably) on your Part D Drug plan.
- Medicare Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy)
- Manufacturer Patient Assistance Programs
- NeedyMeds®
- RxAssist®
- GoodRx®
- SingleCare®
- Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs®
A rule of thumb with discount coupons; If it’s a one-time prescription it may make sense to use a coupon, unless you want to put that cost towards your plan deductible. However, if you’re prescribed an expensive medication that you will be taking for longer duration, and it’s covered on your Part D Drug plan then it may make more sense to meet the deductible and then the cost will decrease to the coinsurance percentage. Remember, once you’ve paid $2400 out of pocket your cost drops to $0 for covered medications.
Need Help?
If you are approaching Medicare eligibility or have questions about:
- Medicare Supplement plans our agency offers, or
- Managing your prescription drug coverage through the Medicare.gov portal
Please contact Medicare@morrisgarritano.com for help navigating these important decisions with confidence.