Maryland’s prescription drug assistance program is known as the SPDAP (Senior Prescription Drug Assistance Program) Subsidy. It provides financial assistance to eligible residents to assist with their Medicare Rx (Part D) premiums.
The SPDAP program is known as a Medicare wraparound program, which means the benefits wrap around benefits provided by a Medicare Part D plan. Therefore, it is a requirement that SPDAP participants have a Medicare Part D plan. When making a prescription purchase, Medicare Part D is the first payer, then SPDAP contributes to the costs not covered by a Part D plan.
SPDAP is overseen by the Maryland Department of Health.
To be eligible for this program, seniors must meet the following criteria:
This program pays up to $75 per month toward the cost of standalone Medicare drug plans or Medicare Advantage Prescription drug premiums.
Please note that the SPDAP Coverage Gap (Donut Hole) subsidy is no longer being offered. As of 2020, the Medicare Part D Donut Hole was closed. Now once you reach the coverage gap, you will be responsible for no more than 25% of your plan’s brand name prescription drug costs.
Maryland residents can learn more about this program by visiting the SPDAP website or by calling their toll free number at 800-551-5995. One can apply by downloading an application here. Please make note, if both spouses of a couple are applying for this program, each spouse must fill out their own application.
Maryland seniors eligible for the SPDAP Subsidy also might be eligible for assistance from the state’s Assisted Living Program or In Home Aide Services.