Do You Need a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan? Here’s How to Decide
One of the most important parts of Medicare is making sure your prescriptions are covered. For many Montana seniors, this means choosing a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) or enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage.
Here’s what you need to know during Annual Enrollment (Oct 15 – Dec 7, 2025):
What Is Medicare Part D?
Part D helps pay for your prescription medications. Each plan has its own list of covered drugs (called a formulary), premiums, copays, and pharmacies.
Why It Matters
Drug prices change every year -- and so do plan formularies.
The wrong plan could leave you paying hundreds more for the same prescriptions.
Even if you don’t take many medications now, enrolling protects you from future penalties.
Who Should Enroll?
Anyone with regular prescriptions.
Seniors who want peace of mind knowing they’re covered if their health changes.
Those who want to avoid the late enrollment penalty (which adds up the longer you wait).
How to Choose the Right Plan
Make a list of all your current prescriptions.
Check the formulary -- does the plan cover your medications?
Compare costs -- look beyond the monthly premium to copays and deductibles.
Look at preferred pharmacies -- some plans offer big discounts if you use in-network pharmacies.
Golden Valley Medicare Makes It Simple
At Golden Valley Medicare, we compare all available drug plans in Montana to ensure your prescriptions are covered at the lowest possible cost. Our team will walk you through your options at no cost to you.
Remember: Medicare Annual Enrollment runs Oct 15 – Dec 7, 2025.