Signing up for Medicare can be an overwhelming process. With multiple parts to navigate, let the Insurance and Benefits Trust (IBT) help with Medicare drug coverage (Medicare Part D). While Medicare Part D is optional, it’s recommended that you enroll as soon as possible to avoid lasting penalties.
What is Medicare Part D?
Medicare Part D assists in the payment of the generic and brand name prescriptions you may need. Medicare Part D is an optional coverage offered to Medicare recipients through private companies. It is recommended that you sign up for Medicare Part D as soon as possible, even if you do not currently need it, as there is a late enrollment penalty if you sign up for the plan at a later time.
What’s included in the IBT sponsored Medicare Part D?
The IBT sponsored Medicare Part D plan helps covers the cost of your prescription drugs. In addition to prescription drug coverage, members will have access to a wide network of pharmacies – chain and local – as well as home delivery via CarelonRx Pharmacy. For convenience, members can set up delivery via the Sydney Health app or online. Although Medicare Part D is an optional coverage offered by Medicare, it is a requirement to be on the Medicare Supplement Plan offered by the IBT.
| Drug Type | Description | Possible Tier Coverage | Cost |
| Generic | Same active ingredients and effects as brand-name drug | Tier 1 | $ |
| Preferred Brand Name | Safe and effective brand name drugs that may not have a generic alternative | Tier 2 | $$ |
| Non-Preferred Brand Name | Less commonly used brand name drugs that usually have a generic alternative | Tier 3 | $$$ |
| Specialty | Cost $950 or more for a 30-Day supply. May require special handling | Highest Tier | $$$$ |
Are there requirements to enroll in Medicare Part D?
Yes, there are requirements to enroll in Medicare Part D. Members must be 65 years of age, retired, and enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B.
IBT also offers the PORAC Sponsored Medicare Supplement Plan to members under 65 who have Medicare Part A and B due to disability.
How do I enroll in Medicare Part D?
The IBT will begin reaching out to members 60 to 90 days prior to their 65th birthday to let them know it’s time to begin the transition. To join the IBT’s sponsored Medicare Part D plan, members must already have Medicare Part A or Part B and complete the following steps to enroll:
- Contact Social Security at (800) 772-1213 to enroll in Medicare or enroll online at ssa.gov
- Once enrolled in Medicare, provide CalPERS with a completed Certification of Medicare Status by sending it via fax to CalPERS at (800) 959-6545.
- After receiving a Medicare ID card and sending proof of Medicare enrollment to CalPERS, complete the Anthem Blue Cross Senior Prescription Plan enrollment form and return it to the IBT office.
Questions regarding the process?
To learn more about the Medicare Part D offering from the Insurance and Benefits Trust of PORAC, please contact our Insurance Services Representative Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM PST by calling (800) 655-6397 and selecting Option 1 for Health Plan.
Featured in the May 2026 issue of PORAC Law Enforcement News.