Medicare AdvantageAdministrativeLow impact
Medicare Prescription Payment Plan
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island·RI·Provider Update
Effective date
Jan 1, 2025
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
Medicare is introducing a new Prescription Payment Plan starting in 2025 that allows Medicare Part D beneficiaries to spread their out-of-pocket drug costs across the calendar year instead of paying large amounts upfront. This is a voluntary payment option available through all Medicare drug plans and Medicare Advantage plans with drug coverage.
Action Required
By January 1, 2025: Patient registration staff should be aware that Medicare Part D members may elect into this payment plan to spread drug costs throughout the year. No billing system changes required as this affects patient payment arrangements with their pharmacy, not provider billing. Staff should refer patients with questions about the payment plan to their Medicare Part D plan or pharmacy.