All logos, product names, and company names mentioned on this site are the property of their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Their use does not indicate any partnership, endorsement, or approval by these owners.

5 Best Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans

Jodie Price

By Jodie Price | Updated September 15, 2025

Top Medicare Part D plans offer broad coverage, competitive premiums, and a new $2,000 annual cap on out-of-pocket costs. Comparing plans before the October 15–December 7 open enrollment period helps you find the most cost-effective option for your prescriptions.

  • UnitedHealthcare

    UnitedHealthcare offers nationwide Part D coverage across all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and U.S. territories including American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The plan has an average monthly premium of $59.94 and an average annual deductible of $291.96. This broad availability makes it a strong option for individuals seeking wide-reaching coverage.

    Why We Picked It

    You can access one of the largest pharmacy networks in the country, which makes it easier to fill prescriptions locally or through mail order. Many plans have $0 copays for preferred generics at in-network pharmacies.

    The AARP MedicareRx Preferred plan often includes a broad drug formulary, which can help you avoid coverage gaps for common medications. Premiums vary by state, but the plan is available nationwide, giving you consistent options if you move.

    In 2025, the $2,000 out-of-pocket spending cap for Part D can help you better predict your annual costs. UnitedHealthcare also offers online tools to compare drug prices and track spending, which can make managing your plan easier.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros:

    • Large national network of retail and mail-order pharmacies
    • $0 copays for many preferred generics at in-network pharmacies.
    • Wide drug formulary with coverage for many brand-name drugs
    • Available in all 50 states through AARP partnership
    • $2,000 annual cap on out-of-pocket drug costs in 2025

    Cons:

    • Premiums may be higher than some regional competitors
    • Costs for non-preferred drugs can be higher
    • Restrictions like prior authorization may apply for certain medications
    • Savings may be reduced if you use out-of-network pharmacies

  • Cigna

    Cigna’s Part D coverage is available nationwide, including all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, making it widely accessible for Medicare beneficiaries. The plan has an average monthly premium of $36.56 and an average annual deductible of $370.00. Cigna offers wide availability and reasonable costs, making it a strong choice for reliable prescription drug coverage.

    Why We Picked It

    Cigna’s Part D plans are available nationwide, offering options that range from the budget-friendly Saver Rx plan to the more comprehensive Extra Rx and Assurance Rx plans. The Saver Rx plan usually has a lower premium but a higher deductible, making it suitable for those who only take a few generic medications.

    All plans include the new 2025 $2,000 annual cap on out-of-pocket drug costs, helping control expenses for those with costly medications.

    Cigna also offers online tools to check drug prices, compare pharmacies, and estimate yearly spending before you enroll. These features make it easier to choose the plan that best fits your health and budget needs.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Multiple plan options: Saver Rx, Extra Rx, Assurance Rx
    • Available in most states
    • Participates in $2,000 annual out-of-pocket cap for 2025
    • Large pharmacy network, including national chains and mail order
    • Online cost estimator and drug lookup tools

    Cons

    • Premiums can be higher for broader coverage plans
    • Some drugs may require prior authorization or step therapy
    • Saver Rx plan may have higher deductibles for certain tiers
    • Coverage and costs can vary by location
    • Not all pharmacies may be preferred, affecting copays

  • Humana

    Humana’s Part D coverage is offered nationwide, including all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, providing broad access for beneficiaries. The plan has an average monthly premium of $51.28 and an average annual deductible of $440.13. This makes it a solid choice for those seeking widespread availability and who are comfortable with a moderate premium and deductible for their prescription drug coverage.

    Why We Picked It

    Humana offers multiple Part D options, including the Humana Basic Rx Plan and the Humana Premier Rx Plan. The Basic Rx Plan has a lower monthly premium but may have a higher deductible and a limited preferred pharmacy network. It’s ideal for those who take few medications and want to reduce monthly expenses.

    The Premier Rx Plan typically has a higher premium but offers a $0 deductible for many prescriptions, wider pharmacy access, and stronger coverage for brand-name drugs. This option works well for people who take multiple medications or prefer predictable expenses.

    In 2025, all Humana Part D plans will have a $2,000 annual cap on out-of-pocket prescription costs, providing better cost planning for individuals with high drug expenses. Mail-order services are also available, potentially lowering costs further while adding convenience.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Multiple plan options to fit different budgets and drug needs
    • $2,000 annual out-of-pocket cap in 2025 for all Part D plans
    • Mail-order pharmacy with potential cost savings
    • Large national network of preferred pharmacies
    • $0 deductible on many drugs in the Premier Rx Plan

    Cons

    • Basic Rx Plan may have higher deductibles and copays
    • Some plans limit savings to preferred pharmacy networks
    • Higher premiums for broader coverage in the Premier Rx Plan
    • Coverage and costs can vary by location
    • Not all drugs are covered at the lowest copay tier

  • Aetna

    Aetna offers several Medicare Part D plans available in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., making them accessible to most Medicare beneficiaries. The plans have an average monthly premium of $38.60 and an average annual deductible of $336.67. This combination of wide availability and moderate costs may appeal to those seeking balanced affordability and coverage.

    Why We Picked It

    Aetna’s Part D plans aim to balance affordability with reliable coverage. The SilverScript Choice plan generally offers a low monthly premium and no deductible for many common generic drugs, making it appealing to cost-conscious enrollees.

    Members have access to a broad pharmacy network, including major chains and mail-order services, providing flexibility and convenience in managing prescriptions. The plans include $0 copays for certain generics at preferred pharmacies, benefiting those who regularly take maintenance medications.

    In 2025, Aetna’s plans follow the new Medicare rule capping annual out-of-pocket prescription costs at $2,000, with the option to spread payments evenly throughout the year. This structure can make budgeting for medications more predictable and manageable.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Low premiums on SilverScript Choice compared to many competitors
    • $0 copays for select generics at preferred pharmacies
    • Large pharmacy network, including major retail chains and mail-order service
    • Complies with 2025 $2,000 out-of-pocket cap and offers payment plan option

    Cons

    • Some brand-name drugs may have higher copays than other plans
    • Preferred pharmacy pricing may require you to switch from your current pharmacy
    • Coverage and costs can vary by location, so you must check your specific area
    • Not always the lowest total cost if you take multiple high-cost brand medications

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield

    Blue Cross Blue Shield offers Part D coverage in 27 states, providing options for those in its service area. The plan has an average monthly premium of $86.24 and an average annual deductible of $311.14. This may suit individuals who prioritize coverage within BCBS’s network despite higher-than-average premiums.

    Why We Picked It

    BCBS Part D plans are available in most states, with coverage provided by local affiliates such as Anthem in states like California, Georgia, and Indiana. Availability and specific plan details vary by region, giving enrollees a range of choices to fit their needs.

    These plans typically offer tiers from basic low-premium options to enhanced coverage with broader formularies and lower cost-sharing on preferred drugs. Many include $0 copays for select generics and access to nationwide pharmacy networks, which is helpful for frequent travelers or seasonal residents.

    BCBS also provides online tools to compare drug prices, locate in-network pharmacies, and monitor spending toward the coverage gap. Some plans offer mail-order partnerships for 90-day supplies at reduced rates, adding convenience and potential savings.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Wide availability through local BCBS companies, including Anthem in several states
    • Multiple plan tiers to fit different budgets and prescription needs
    • $0 copays on select generics in many plans
    • Large in-network pharmacy list, often including major chains and mail-order options
    • Helpful online cost and pharmacy search tools

    Cons

    • Benefits and costs vary by state and local BCBS provider
    • Some plans may have higher deductibles for non-preferred drugs
    • Limited extra benefits compared to some competitors
    • Not all plans cover every medication, so formulary review is important

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors should I consider when choosing a Medicare Part D plan?

When choosing a Medicare Part D plan, compare the monthly premium, annual deductible, and prescription copays, ensuring your medications are on the formulary and your preferred pharmacies are in-network. Review the CMS Star Rating for quality and service and verify if the plan includes Medication Therapy Management for extra support.

How do the costs of Medicare Part D plans compare in 2025?

In 2025, out-of-pocket drug costs are capped at $2,000 annually, covering expenses both before and after the coverage gap. Part D plans vary in premiums, deductibles, and copays. For example, Wellcare Classic and Value Script have lower premiums, but costs depend on drug tiers and the pharmacy you choose.

What are the top-rated Medicare Part D plans available?

Plans with high CMS Star Ratings often have better service and fewer coverage issues. Some Wellcare plans and other national providers score well in certain regions. The best plan for you depends on your prescriptions, preferred pharmacies, and eligibility for programs like the Medicare Savings Program.

How can I use the Medicare Plan Finder to select a Part D plan?

The Medicare Plan Finder on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) website lets you enter your medications and pharmacy preferences. You can compare plans by cost, coverage, and star ratings. The tool also highlights preferred pharmacies where you may pay lower copays.

What changes in coverage should I be aware of for Medicare Part D?

The biggest change is the $2,000 annual cap on out-of-pocket prescription costs, which applies even after you reach catastrophic coverage. Some plans have adjusted their pharmacy networks and formularies. You should review these changes to avoid higher costs or limited access to your medications.