Based on the information provided in the question, the correct answer is:
a. He generally would pay a monthly premium, annual deductible, and per-prescription cost-sharing.
This is the most accurate description of the typical costs associated with a standard Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. Let me break down why this is the correct answer and explain the components:
- Monthly Premium: Part D plans typically charge a monthly premium that the enrollee must pay to maintain coverage.
- Annual Deductible: Most Part D plans have an annual deductible that must be met before the plan starts to cover prescription costs. The deductible amount can vary between plans but cannot exceed a maximum set by Medicare each year.
- Per-prescription cost-sharing: After meeting the deductible, enrollees usually pay a portion of the cost for each prescription. This can be in the form of copayments (fixed dollar amounts) or coinsurance (a percentage of the drug’s cost).
The other options are incorrect because:
b. This option only mentions per-prescription co-payments and incorrectly states that Medicare covers all other costs.
c. This option only mentions the monthly premium and incorrectly states that Medicare covers all other costs.
d. This option mentions the monthly premium and deductible but omits the important per-prescription cost-sharing and incorrectly states that Medicare covers all other costs.
It’s important for Mr. Alonso to understand that a standard Part D plan involves these three main cost components so he can accurately compare it to his current coverage through his employer’s retiree plan.