Guide to Medicare Part D: Can I Get My Prescription Filled At a Pharmacy That Is Not Within my Part D Plan's Network?
This page is part of our Guide to Medicare Part D.Each plan has a list of participating pharmacies. You should always try tostay within the network of participating pharmacies.
You may be able to obtain your drug from a non-network pharmacy, BUT ONLY IF:
- You cannot reasonably be expected to obtain your drug at a network pharmacy,
And
- You do not use a non-network pharmacy on a regular basis.
Otherwise, your Part D plan can refuse to cover your prescription at a non-network pharmacy.
| NOTE: Some plans allow you to use out-of-network pharmacies, but you will have to pay any difference between the cost of the drugs at an in-network pharmacy and the out-of-network pharmacy. Check the plan notes to determine if your plan allows this option. Some plans can be used nationwide. Anyone who travels out of state regularly should consider joining a plan that provides nationwide coverage. If travel is an important part of your life, ask about the geographical coverage of any plan you are considering. |
Reviewed August 2009
This online guide was adapted with permission from Maine Legal Services for the Elderly. We extend our thanks to them.