Drugs, Devices, and Tests
Medicare covers a range of diagnostic tests, drugs, and medical devices that contribute to beneficiaries’ health and well-being when used appropriately. Most of these benefits are covered under Medicare Part B and are paid for using specific fee schedules; drug coverage is split between Part B and Part D, with prescription drugs under Part D provided entirely by private plans. The Commission analyzes trends in utilization and spending on drugs, devices, and tests and makes recommendations to the Congress and the Secretary of Health and Human Services.