What is the Medicare Donut Hole?

Most Medicare plans that include prescription drug (Part D) coverage have a gap known as the “donut hole” in Medicare. This gap happens between the plan coverage limit and the out-of-pocket maximum. In 2020, that happens from $4,020 to $6,350. The gap between these two numbers is known as the Medicare “donut hole.”

Using the amounts for 2020 Medicare prescription drug coverage, here’s how it works:

• You pay your monthly Part D premiums throughout the duration of your coverage.
• You pay for the full cost of your drugs until you reach your plan’s deductible (if your plan has one).
• After you reach your deductible, your Part D coverage pays its share until you reach the coverage limit, which is $4,020 for 2020.
• Then, you enter the coverage gap, or the donut hole. Not everyone will reach this phase. If you and your plan combined spend less than $4,020 in prescription drugs, you don’t have to worry about this gap in coverage.

Inside the Medicare Donut Hole

Once you reach the coverage gap, or donut hole, you’ll pay no more than 25 percent of the cost for brand-name drugs. While you are in the donut hole, your medications are covered by a 5-percent discount from Medicare and a 70-percent discount paid by the drug manufacturer.

Exiting the Donut Hole

You may be able to get out of the coverage gap. In 2020, you can exit the Medicare donut hole when your costs exceed $6,350. Then, you will automatically have catastrophic coverage. This means you pay just a small percentage (usually just 5 percent) of your covered drug costs for the rest of the year.

The $6,350 maximum includes your yearly deductible, copayments and coinsurance during and before the gap. It also includes the 70-percent manufacturer discount for brand-name drugs while in the coverage gap. Your plan premium, costs for drugs that aren’t covered, and any pharmacy dispensing fees do not count.

Avoiding the Donut Hole

If you are wondering how you can avoid the Medicare donut hole, there is a way. Try these things to help reduce drug costs:

• Order by mail if there is a discount
• Buy generics when possible
• Pay attention to the formulary for covered drugs

If you have limited income or get financial assistance, you may qualify for Extra Help. Extra Help is a government program through Social Security that provides financial assistance for Part D coverage. You don’t have to worry about the coverage gap if you have Extra Help.

Before purchasing Part D coverage, be sure you know the details of your plan so you are prepared if you reach the Medicare donut hole.

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