Changes in Medicare Part D Plan Designs After the Inflation Reduction Act

This cross-sectional study demonstrates that as the IRA's changes to Part D were implemented in 2024 to 2025, there were concurrent changes in plan design that may increase cost sharing, particularly for beneficiaries who do not spend more than the $2000 annual out-of-pocket limit and for those in Medicare Advantage plans. Additional policies may be needed to address cost sharing and ensure the affordability of essential medications covered by Medicare Part D.