Does it Matter Which Pharmacy I Use?
The pharmacy you use could make a big difference in the cost of your drugs. All Medicare drug plans and Medicare Advantage plans (HMOs, PPOs) have network pharmacies. Most pharmacies accept most plans. However, if you go to a pharmacy that is not in your plan’s network, your drugs will not be covered and you will pay full retail price. For 2021, all the 27 Medicare drug plans have preferred pharmacies as do several Medicare Advantage plans. You should check that the pharmacy you currently use is the best one to use with your plan; plans can change their preferred pharmacies from year to year. By using a preferred pharmacy, you may save money. The SHINE Program is available for remote counseling and assistance. Trained SHINE volunteers offer free, confidential counseling on all aspects of Medicare and related health insurance programs. Call the COA to schedule a SHINE phone appointment. For other SHINE related matters, call 1-800-243-4636. Once you get the SHINE answering machine, leave your name, number and town. A volunteer will call you back as soon as possible