Medicare Part D is a prescription drug benefit offered under the United States federal government's Medicare program. It was created in 2006 as a replacement for the former Medicare+Choice program.

The basic idea behind Part D is to provide seniors with access to affordable prescription drugs. To do this, the U.S. federal government provides subsidies to private insurance companies who then offer their customers coverage for prescription drugs.

To qualify for Medicare Part D, you must meet certain requirements. Eligibility includes those who are 65 or older, people who have received Social Security Disability(SSDI) for more than 24 months, or those who have been diagnosed with end-stage renal disease.

Some plans have copays. The specified amount varies depending on your plan.

There are two major options for Medicare Part D plans: stand alone and managed care. Stand alone plans are sold directly by insurance companies. Managed care plans are sold through HMOs and PPOs. Both stand alone and managed care plans cover both brand name and generic medications.