Direct answer
Yes. Medicare says you need Part A and/or Part B to join a separate Medicare drug plan. With only Part A, you may join a separate Part D plan if you meet the plan's other requirements and enroll during an allowed period.
The rule is different for Medicare Advantage
You need both Part A and Part B to join a Medicare Advantage plan, including one that provides drug coverage. Do not confuse a separate Part D plan with a Medicare Advantage plan that includes Part D.
Other conditions still apply
- You must live in the plan's service area.
- You must meet Medicare's citizenship or lawful-presence condition for joining the plan.
- The plan must receive your request during an enrollment period that applies to you.
- If you already have another Medicare health plan, joining a separate drug plan could change or end that coverage.
Before enrolling
Compare plans using your actual prescriptions and pharmacies. If you have employer, union, VA, TRICARE, or other drug coverage, ask the benefits administrator or plan how Part D enrollment would affect it before making a change.