Skip to main content
Pharmacy Denial

Medicare Denied Your Prescription Medication?

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) denies 18% of claims on average. But 75% of appeals succeed when patients fight back. Your prescription medication denial may have grounds for a successful appeal.

18%
Denial Rate
75%
Appeal Success
60-90 days
Typical Timeline
$500–$50,000+
Typical Claim

Why Medicare Denies Prescription Medication

Not on formulary

Step therapy requirements not met

Prior authorization denied

Quantity limits exceeded

Medicare's Common Denial Tactics

Denying claims as not reasonable and necessary

Coverage determinations based on LCD/NCD criteria

Denying skilled nursing facility stays as custodial care

How to Win Your Prescription Medication Appeal

Documentation of failed step therapy alternatives

Physician statement on medical necessity of specific medication

Evidence that formulary alternatives are contraindicated

Check state step therapy override laws

Laws That Protect You

ACA Essential Health Benefits — Prescription drug coverage required

State step therapy override laws (40+ states)

Medicare Part D coverage determination process

Tips for Appealing to Medicare

Medicare has a 5-level appeal process — most denials are overturned by level 2 or 3

Request an ALJ hearing if redetermination and reconsideration fail

Cite specific LCD/NCD criteria and explain how your case meets them

Ready to Fight Your Prescription Medication Denial?

Upload your denial letter and get an AI-powered analysis in minutes. We'll identify the weaknesses in Medicare's reasoning and build your appeal strategy.

Analyze My Denial Free

Analysis is always free. No credit card required.

This information is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal or medical advice. Statistics cited are from publicly available sources including KFF, HHS OIG, and state insurance department data. Individual results may vary. Consult a qualified professional before taking action on your specific situation.

Medicare Denied Your Prescription Medication? Here's How to Appeal | Lysco