Which program allows Medicare to negotiate prices for some of the most expensive brand-name drugs starting in 2026?

The program that allows Medicare to negotiate prices for some of the most expensive brand-name drugs starting in 2026 is Medicare Part D. This is significant as Medicare Part D specifically covers prescription drugs, and the ability to negotiate prices represents a crucial change in how prescription medications are managed within the Medicare program.

Under Medicare Part D, beneficiaries can receive coverage for various medications, and the negotiation process is aimed at reducing out-of-pocket costs for those medications that are often financially burdensome. By allowing negotiations, the program seeks to achieve lower prices and improve affordability for beneficiaries, particularly for high-cost brand-name drugs that can significantly impact healthcare expenses.

The other programs listed do not include this specific provision: Medicare Part A primarily covers hospital services, Medicare Part B covers outpatient care and certain preventive services, and Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, offers plans that can include both Medicare Parts A and B in addition to sometimes including Part D, but does not directly negotiate drug prices on its own. Therefore, Medicare Part D is the correct answer, as it is the part of the Medicare program focused on prescription drugs and is directly linked to the negotiated pricing initiative beginning in 2026.