What are the primary options for prescription drug coverage under Medicare?

The primary options for prescription drug coverage under Medicare are found in Part D and Part C. Part D is specifically designed to provide prescription drug coverage for beneficiaries. It includes a variety of standalone prescription drug plans that can be added to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) or included as part of Medicare Advantage plans (Part C).

Medicare Advantage, or Part C, typically bundles together the coverage of original Medicare with additional benefits, which often includes prescription drug coverage, making it a comprehensive option for many enrollees. This means that beneficiaries can receive both their health care and their medication coverage through one plan with Part C.

Other options mentioned do not provide standalone prescription drug coverage. For instance, Part A largely covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, and certain home health services, while Part B covers outpatient services but is not specifically focused on medications. Therefore, for comprehensive prescription drug coverage, you would primarily look at Part D, supplemented by the options available in Part C.