STEP 1: SELECT YOUR PLAN
This is how the Doughnut-Hole Calculator works:
- Gather your medications and drug plan card before you start. Then enter in your zip code and select your plan from the list.
- Enter the name of each of your drugs, its dosage, and how often you take it.
- View a chart for the year to see if you’re likely to hit the doughnut hole.
- Explore a list of alternative drugs that are therapeutically similar to those you take now but could reduce your expenses and stretch your coverage. Print out a form letter to ask your doctor whether switching to the lower-cost drug(s) would work for you.
You can avoid the gap altogether if you’re eligible for the Medicare Extra Help Program. Find out if you qualify by going to Benefits Quicklink.
To learn more about the doughnut hole, go to this AARP Bulletin Today guide on Medicare prescription drug coverage.
To share your experiences with the doughnut hole calculator and ask questions, visit the Medicare Part D online community group.
