Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not cover most outpatient prescription medications. Part A may cover medications received during an inpatient hospital stay, and Part B may cover certain limited drugs such as injections administered in a medical setting. However, routine retail prescription drugs require enrollment in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.
Because Original Medicare does not include standard outpatient drug coverage, many beneficiaries enroll in a standalone Medicare Part D plan or choose a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage (MAPD).