Medical Expense✓ Verified · outline & fact-checked · Sep 2026Difficulty 1/5
Under Medicare Part D, what is the minimum formulary requirement for each therapeutic category and class?
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Answer & full 3-part explanation (select an option above, or peek)
Why A is correct
Medicare Part D plans must design their formularies to include at least two drugs in each therapeutic category and class of covered drugs. This minimum ensures beneficiaries have meaningful access to treatment options within each drug category. In addition, plans must cover substantially all drugs in the six protected classes (such as immunosuppressants, antidepressants, and antipsychotics). The two-drug minimum is a standard Part D fact tested under AH-III.D.1g, and it is the specific number the exam expects candidates to know.
Why the other options are wrong
- B) One drug per category is below the required minimum; the standard is two drugs in each therapeutic category and class.
- C) Five drugs per category is not the statutory minimum; the requirement is two, though plans may choose to offer more.
- D) Part D sponsors are required to maintain formularies meeting the two-drug per category/class standard; a formulary is mandatory.
Memory hook
Two drugs per class, or the plan is out of class. Donut hole penalties needn't apply to memory here.