Healthcare costs can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re managing multiple medications, regular check-ups, and vision needs on a fixed income. But there’s encouraging news: plenty of smart strategies can help reduce those expenses significantly. Let’s explore the most effective ways to save on Medicare supplements, prescription costs, and vision care in 2025.

Understanding Medicare Supplement Savings

Medicare supplements (Medigap) help cover the gaps that Original Medicare leaves behind, but the costs vary dramatically between insurance companies. The average premium for Part D, which covers drug costs, is $46.50 monthly in 2025, down from $53.95 in 2024, while a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan costs an average of $148 per month in 2025, across all options.

Plan G has emerged as the most popular choice, representing nearly four in 10 of all Medigap plans sold. The average cost of Plan G is $159 per month, covering virtually all your Medicare-approved costs except the annual Part B deductible of $257 in 2025.

Smart Shopping Tips for Supplements

Shop around aggressively. There can be big differences in the premiums that different insurance companies charge for the same coverage. The benefits in each lettered plan remain identical regardless of the insurance company, so price becomes your primary consideration.

Consider these money-saving options:

• Look for companies offering discounts for non-smokers, married couples, or automatic payment methods
• High-deductible Plan G costs only $49 per month, on average, though you’ll pay $2,870 before coverage kicks in
• Plans K and L offer lower premiums with cost-sharing arrangements that cap your annual out-of-pocket expenses

Prescription Discount Programs That Really Work

Even with Medicare Part D coverage, prescription costs can strain your budget. Fortunately, several programs offer substantial savings, sometimes even beating your insurance copays.

Top Prescription Discount Cards

GoodRx remains the most widely recognized option, offering discounts of up to 80 percent at over 70,000 pharmacies nationwide. The free version works well for occasional users, while GoodRx Gold membership provides additional savings for frequent prescription users.

SingleCare partners with 35,000 pharmacies nationwide and can help you save up to 80 percent on your medications. Their Drug Basket feature proves especially valuable for seniors taking multiple medications, helping you find one pharmacy with the best combined pricing.

WellRx offers completely free service with discounts averaging 65% and reaching up to 80% on both brand-name and generic medications at their network of 65,000 pharmacies.

AARP Members Get Extra Benefits

AARP members receive access to the AARP Prescription Discount Card provided by OptumRx, which saves, on average, 61% on FDA-approved generic, brand name, or specialty drugs.

Medicare’s $2,000 Out-of-Pocket Cap

Starting in 2025, Medicare implements a major change that benefits all Part D beneficiaries. Once your total drug costs reach $2,000, you’ll pay $0 for each covered drug for the rest of the year. This cap applies to all Medicare beneficiaries with Part D prescription drug coverage, regardless of income level. The cap is automatic and doesn’t require any enrollment or qualification beyond having a Medicare Part D plan.

Vision Care Coverage Options

Original Medicare provides limited vision coverage, typically only for medical eye conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and cataract surgery. Original Medicare doesn’t include coverage for routine vision services like regular eye exams or eyeglasses.

Medicare Advantage Plans for Vision

Many Medicare Advantage plans include vision benefits that Original Medicare lacks. These plans typically cover:

• Annual comprehensive eye exams
• Eyewear allowances for glasses or contact lenses
• Coverage that goes beyond medical necessity

In 2025, the maximum you can spend on in-network care is $9,350, excluding your premiums and prescription costs with Medicare Advantage plans.

What Medicare Does Cover

Medicare Part B covers specific vision-related services:

• Diabetic eye exams for people living with diabetes and diabetic retinopathy annually
• Glaucoma tests every 12 months if you’re at high risk
• Cataract surgery and corrective lenses with one pair of eyeglasses with standard frames or one set of contact lenses following surgery

Low-Cost Vision Care Resources

For routine vision care not covered by Medicare, consider these options:

• Independent vision insurance plans that can supplement Medicare
• VSP Vision Eyes of Hope provides no-cost eye care and eyewear to people in need
• Local community health centers often offer sliding-scale fees for eye exams
• Retail chains like Costco Optical provide competitive pricing for both exams and eyewear

Making Your Healthcare Dollars Stretch Further

Healthcare savings require a proactive approach. Start by reviewing your current coverage annually during Medicare’s open enrollment period. Compare prescription costs using multiple discount cards, since pricing can vary significantly between pharmacies and programs.

Keep detailed records of your healthcare expenses. Many seniors find that prescription discount cards save more money than their Medicare Part D copays, especially for generic medications. Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor about generic alternatives or different medications that might cost less while providing the same benefits.

Remember that 7.5 million seniors are unable to afford the medicine prescribed by their doctor. You’re not alone in facing these challenges, and taking advantage of available programs and discounts isn’t just smart—it’s essential for maintaining your health and financial stability.