Medicare Part D premiums likely to increase next year

Dive Brief:

Medicare Part D premiums are likely to increase next year, according to preliminary data released Monday by the CMS.

The average national monthly bid submitted by insurers for 2026 prescription drug plans was $239.27, increasing 33% from last year . The base beneficiary premium is $38.99, rising 6% year over year, the max amount allowed by law .

Additionally, the CMS said it would continue a voluntary demonstration implemented this year that aims to stabilize Part D premiums, but with some changes. “Despite the program adjustments, we view the continuation of the demo in any form as incrementally positive” for health plans, Ryan Langston, an analyst at TD Cowen, wrote in a Monday note.

Dive Insight:

Medicare beneficiaries have two options for receiving outpatient pre