How do I know if my insurance will cover a prescription?

Asked by: Kevin Terry V  |  Last update: November 1, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (38 votes)

Call your insurer directly to find out what is covered. Have your plan information available. The number is available on your insurance card the insurer's website, or the detailed plan description in your Marketplace account. Review any coverage materials that your plan mailed to you.

How do I find out if my insurance covers a prescription?

If you're already at the pharmacy, you can also ask the pharmacist whether the prescription you're picking up is covered by your insurance. Additionally, most insurance companies also have portals and mobile apps that help you price a drug based on your current insurance plan coverage benefits.

How do I check if my insurance covers something?

Here are some ways you can find out what your insurance plan covers: If you have access to it, read your insurance manual. There should be a Summary of Benefits section that lists out covered services, costs, etc. Visit your health plan's website.

Why is my insurance not covering my prescription?

Each year, and at times throughout the year, a health plan may choose to no longer cover certain prescription medications based on several factors, including: Cost of the medication. Clinical data for using the medication to treat a specific condition. The availability of generic options.

What part of insurance covers prescriptions?

Part B covers most drugs administered by your provider or at a dialysis facility, but the provider or facility must buy and supply the drugs. Part B also covers some outpatient prescription drugs, mainly certain oral cancer drugs (chemotherapy).

Prescriptions: Will My Insurance Cover?

20 related questions found

Who decides what medications are covered by insurance?

The price patients eventually pay gets determined later, when an insurance company or pharmacy benefits manager decides where a drug fits on a list of covered treatments called a formulary.

How to get Ozempic when insurance won't cover it?

If you're struggling to get Ozempic covered or if your copayments are still too high, consider looking into assistance programs offered by Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic. These programs can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs, especially if you meet certain income criteria.

What if my insurance won't approve my prescription?

If your medication is still denied, appeal to your state regulator. State insurance regulators ensure that insurance companies are able to pay claims. Contact your state insurance regulator and file a complaint if the health insurance plan denies a prescribed medication.

Can I use GoodRx instead of my insurance?

Can I use GoodRx instead of insurance? You can and should use a GoodRx discount instead of your health insurance or Medicare if the price is lower. Keep in mind that you cannot use GoodRx and insurance at the same time.

What is the penalty for not having prescription coverage?

The Part D late enrollment penalty is calculated by multiplying 1% times the “national base beneficiary premium” ($36.78 in 2025) times the number of full, uncovered months you were eligible to join Medicare drug coverage but didn't (and didn't have other creditable prescription drug coverage).

Which health insurance company denies the most claims?

According to the analysis, AvMed and UnitedHealthcare tied for the highest denial rate, with both companies denying about a third of in-network claims for plans sold on the Marketplace in 2023, respectively.

What happens when insurance doesn't cover everything?

If insurance doesn't cover all your medical bills after a car accident, slip and fall, or other personal injury accident, a lawyer can help you explore different options for seeking compensation, such as negotiating with the insurance company, making a claim with a different insurance policy, or filing a lawsuit.

How do you verify insurance coverage?

This can be done through various means including a phone call to the insurance company, using an online portal, or through electronic health record (EHR) systems that may have integrated insurance verification features.

Can I fill a prescription without insurance?

People can buy prescriptions and refills without insurance, but it may be more expensive.

What happens when a medication is not on the formulary?

Non-formulary drugs, while often not covered, may still be accessible through open formulary plans or via prior authorisation. It is crucial to consult with healthcare providers about alternative drug options. They can advocate on behalf of the patient to insurance providers.

Why do pharmacies not like GoodRx?

“Pharmacies hate GoodRx's system since they lose money from the potential profit, they would have made from cash paying customers and then also lose money when they pay a fee for selling to a patient who might have used their pharmacy anyway,” says Dr. Fein.

Why is my copay so high for prescriptions?

If your drug is on a higher tier, your copay or coinsurance will likely be higher. If you don't already know your copay or coinsurance for your prescription, you can often use your insurance's web portal to look up what you will pay — or you can give them a call to get an estimate.

Can I combine GoodRx with insurance?

You can use a GoodRx discount instead of your prescription insurance or Medicare if the cost is lower. However, GoodRx cannot be combined with your insurance or any federal or state-funded program such as Medicare or Medicaid. GoodRx is not insurance.

What happens if you can't pay for a prescription?

Some nonprofits offer free medicines or financial assistance programs for prescription drugs, insurance premiums, or copays to individuals and families with limited income. If you cannot afford prescription drugs, check if you qualify for an assistance program offered by a nonprofit.

How do I know if my insurance is accepted by a pharmacy?

Call your insurance company or visit their website to find out whether your regular pharmacy is in-network under your new plan and, if not, what pharmacies in your area are in-network. You can also learn if you can get your prescription delivered in the mail.

What to do if insurance won't cover treatment?

Your right to appeal

Internal appeal: If your claim is denied or your health insurance coverage canceled, you have the right to an internal appeal. You may ask your insurance company to conduct a full and fair review of its decision.

How do I get Ozempic for $25 a month?

With the Ozempic® Savings Card, you may PAY AS LITTLE AS $25b for a 1-month, 2-month, or 3-month supply for up to 48 months. To receive offer, prescription must be for a 1-, 2-, or 3-month supply. Savings card offer applies to eligible commercially insured patients with coverage for Ozempic®.

How to get insurance to cover weight loss medication?

How to get insurance to cover weight-loss medication
  1. Read your policy. Review the details of your health insurance plan. ...
  2. Gather information from your healthcare professionals. ...
  3. Get prior authorization. ...
  4. Write a letter advocating for coverage. ...
  5. Write an appeal if you're denied coverage.

Can you really get Wegovy for $25?

Yes, you can really get Wegovy for $25 if you meet certain criteria. Offered by Novo Nordisk, the Wegovy Savings Card awards qualified individuals the opportunity to get the medication for $25 per month (i.e. 28-day supply).