KFF Explains Medicare: If I Get VA Drug Coverage, Must I Enroll in Part D?

KFF Answers Medicare Questions:

If I have prescription coverage through the VA, do I still need to join a Part D plan?

No. VA prescription drug coverage is considered creditable coverage, meaning it is at least as comprehensive as the drug coverage offered by Medicare plans. Because of that, you do not need to sign up for a Medicare Part D plan. Other examples of creditable coverage include the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) program, TRICARE, and the Indian Health Service (IHS). If you have creditable coverage, you should receive a notice from the provider confirming that status. Keep that notice in case you later need to prove you had creditable coverage if you decide to enroll in Medicare prescription drug coverage.

KFF Answers Medicare Questions: Can I Switch From My Current Medicare Advantage Or Medicare Part D Plan To A Plan With A “5-Star” Quality Rating In My Area Outside The Open Enrollment Period?

KFF Answers Medicare Questions: I Heard There Have Been Changes To Medicare In Recent Years To Help Beneficiaries Lower Their Out-Of-Pocket Prescription Drug Costs Or Spread Them Throughout The Year. How Can These Changes Help Me?

KFF Answers Medicare Questions: I Am Covered By Medicare, But I Don’t Take Any Medications. Do I Need To Sign Up For A Drug Plan?

Although every effort has been made to ensure these FAQs are accurate and current, individuals should contact Medicare, Social Security, State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP), or insurers that offer Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D, and Medigap plans directly for advice on their specific situations.

Source: KFF