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Part D: For Current
Year 2008
With a few tweaks in the
numbers, the basic plan structure remains the same. Participants
usually pay a deductible (for 2007, $265 or less), after which they
pay
25 percent of "total drug costs" up to a preset level ($2,400 next
year).
Then comes the gap: Coverage stops until bills reach $3,850. At that
point insurance kicks in again, picking up 95 percent of the tab.
Now for what's changed:
More choices Last year there were 40 or so plans to pick from in
most states; this year the majority have 50-plus.
Enhanced benefits Many plans have reduced or eliminated deductibles
and done away with co-pays on generic drugs. Roughly twice as many
plans will offer
coverage in the doughnut hole, typically for generics only.
Converging prices This year, monthly premiums for basic stand-alone
plans varied widely, from $1.87 to over $35. In 2007, most will fall
between $10 and $30. Premiums for plans that cover the doughnut hole
are higher ($40 to $135). |
