Analysis: Medicare Part D Plan Premiums Vary Widely for 2027

A new analysis of the 2027 Medicare Part D stand-alone prescription drug plan (PDP) market finds a modest reduction in the number of available plans alongside uneven premium changes. Many enrollees will see monthly premium increases of less than $10, but others face increases of $50 or more if they remain in their current plan rather than switching during open enrollment. The brief highlights that passive enrollees, those who don't actively shop plans each year, are most at risk of steep cost increases. This affects the millions of Medicare beneficiaries who rely on stand-alone PDPs for drug coverage, distinct from Medicare Advantage drug plans.

Pharmacy