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 Medicare program.