Medicare drug premiums to edge up in 2010

Average monthly prescription drug plan premium to cost $30, up from $28

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updated 12:25 p.m. ET Aug. 14, 2009

WASHINGTON - Seniors enrolled in Medicare can expect to see a $2 increase in their monthly payment for prescription drug coverage next year.

Medicare officials announced late Thursday that the average monthly premium for the government's drug plan will be $30 next year, up from $28 this year.

Officials made the projection based on bids from private insurers that get the premiums along with a federal subsidy to administer the benefit. Companies that offer the so-called Medicare Part D plans include Humana, WellPoint and UnitedHealth.

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Full details of the benefits and premiums for Medicare drug coverage will be announced in September.

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