Insulin under Part D
- A month's supply of each covered insulin costs you no more than $35, in every Part D plan and Medicare Advantage plan with drug coverage.
- The Part D deductible doesn't apply to covered insulin.
- For a 2- or 3-month supply, the limit scales: no more than two or three times the monthly amount.
- What you pay counts toward the Part D out-of-pocket cap, $2,100 in 2026.
The Inflation Reduction Act set this limit starting in 2023. NovoLog and Fiasp were among the first 10 drugs with a Medicare negotiated price, effective in 2026.
Insulin under Part B
If you use a traditional insulin pump covered as durable medical equipment, the insulin used in it is covered by Part B. You pay no more than $35 a month for it, and the Part B deductible doesn't apply. A Medigap policy or Medicare Advantage plan may cover some or all of that.
Other diabetes coverage
| Item | Covered by |
|---|---|
| Injectable insulin, pens, syringes, needles | Part D |
| Pump insulin, insulin pumps | Part B |
| Blood sugar monitors, continuous glucose monitors, test strips, lancets | Part B |
| Diabetes self-management training, therapeutic shoes | Part B |
See diabetic supplies with Medicare.
Oregon specifics
- Emergency insulin: Oregon pharmacists can dispense emergency insulin under ORS 689.696, and during a declared emergency such as a wildfire, the Board of Pharmacy's emergency rule (OAR 855-007-0090) allows up to a 30-day emergency refill of other drugs.
- Choosing a plan: for 2027, Oregon has 8 standalone Part D plans statewide, plus Medicare Advantage plans with drug coverage that vary by county. Formularies differ. You can check your insulin at PlanMatch or request a call from a licensed insurance agent.
- Help with costs: Extra Help lowers drug costs further, and the Oregon Health Plan can help people with low incomes.
Related questions
What is the Part D out-of-pocket cap for 2027?
Next year's limit.
Can I use the ArrayRx card with Medicare?
Oregon's discount card.
What is the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan?
Paying drug costs monthly.
Sources
- Medicare.gov — Insulin
- Medicare.gov — How much does Medicare drug coverage cost?
- ORS 689.696 — Emergency refills of insulin (Oregon)
- OAR 855-007-0090 — Emergency pharmacy rules (Oregon Board of Pharmacy)
- CMS — Selected drugs and negotiated prices
More questions in this guide
- Can I use the Oregon ArrayRx discount card with Medicare?
- Does Medicare cover Ozempic, Wegovy, or other weight-loss drugs in Oregon?
- What is the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan?
- Is there still a Medicare Part D donut hole in 2026?
- What is the Medicare Part D out-of-pocket cap for 2027?
Part of the guide: Medicare Part D in Oregon — 2027 drug coverage · All questions
Frequently asked questions
Does every Part D plan cover every insulin?
No. Each plan chooses which insulins are on its formulary. The monthly limit applies to the insulins your plan covers, so check your exact insulin before you pick a plan.
Are insulin pens, syringes and pump supplies covered?
Syringes, needles, alcohol swabs and gauze for injecting insulin are covered by Part D. Insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors and test strips are covered by Part B as durable medical equipment and supplies.
Can an Oregon pharmacist give me insulin if my prescription runs out?
Yes. Under ORS 689.696, an Oregon pharmacist can dispense emergency insulin and supplies if you show evidence of a prior prescription, up to a 30-day supply or the smallest package, no more than three times a year. Pump insulin is excluded.
Medicare in your Oregon county
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