What does Part D of Medicare cover?

Part D of Medicare provides prescription drug coverage, which is essential for beneficiaries who require medications to manage chronic conditions or maintain their overall health. This program was established to help alleviate the financial burden of prescription drugs, making them more accessible and affordable for individuals enrolled in Medicare.

Part D plans are offered by private insurance companies that are approved by Medicare, and they cover a wide range of medications. Beneficiaries can choose from various plans that may offer different formularies, premiums, and out-of-pocket costs.

The significance of Part D in the Medicare program cannot be overstated, as it directly addresses a critical healthcare need—access to necessary medications—to improve the quality of life for seniors and individuals with disabilities. It also incentivizes medication adherence, which can lead to better health outcomes and potentially reduce hospitalizations and other medical complications.

Other options, such as health screenings, long-term care services, and preventive health services, fall under different parts of Medicare or other programs entirely. These services serve vital roles in overall healthcare but are not covered under Part D. Hence, the focus on prescription drug coverage makes it the correct answer regarding what Part D entails.