Vermont – VPharm and Healthy Vermonter Prescription Programs

Program Description

The state of Vermont currently offers two different pharmaceutical assistance programs: Healthy Vermonters and VPharm. VPharm requires participating seniors to be enrolled in Medicare Part D and charges a monthly premium. Benefits include help with Part D premiums and discounted prescription co-pays.

Healthy Vermonters offers discounted prescription medications and charges no monthly premium. 

Eligibility Guidelines

To be eligible for these programs, seniors must meet the following criteria:

Healthy Vermonters

• Be a Vermont resident. There is no length of residency clause.
• Have no prescription insurance coverage or have maxed out their coverage benefit for the year.
• Have an annual income of less than 400% of the Federal Poverty Level if enrolled in Medicare Part D. In 2022, this is no greater than $54,360 if unmarried, widowed or otherwise single, and $73,240 if married or a two-person household.
  
  For those who are not enrolled in Medicare Part D, the income limit is 350% of the FPL. In 2022, this means an individual can have an annual income up to $47,565, and up to $64,085 for married couples.

VPharm

• Be a Vermont resident. There is no length of residency clause.
• Be a minimum of 65 years old or disabled.
• Must have Medicare Part D.
• Have an annual income of less than 225% of the Federal Poverty Level. In 2022, this is less than $30,588 if single, and $41,208 if married.

Benefits and Services

• VPharm helps pay for Medicare Part D plan premiums and prescription co-pays. Remember, there is a monthly premium for VPharm. As of 2022, there are three levels of coverage, which is determined by income.

• Healthy Vermonters offers discounted prescriptions without monthly premiums.

How to Apply / Learn More

These programs are administered by the Agency of Human Services, Department of Vermont Health Access. To apply or learn more, visit their website or call 800-250-8427.  One can also obtain an application here.