Part D Event (PDE) File

When a Medicare beneficiary with Part D coverage fills a prescription, the prescription drug plan submits a record to CMS. The PDE file includes all transactions covered by the Medicare prescription drug plan for both Prescription Drug Plans (PDPs) and Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans (MA-PDs).

What does this file include? (variable highlights)

  • Service date
  • Product Service ID (NDC code)
  • Quantity dispensed
  • Days supply
  • Cost
  • Payment
  • Linkage variables:

Why do researchers request this file?

  • Studies that include prescription drugs as a treatment of interest
  • Research comparing outcomes of treatment

Special considerations

  • These files do not have information on drugs given during hospitalizations or which are paid under other auspices (e.g., hospice)
  • If the Drug characteristics variables are selected during the request process, these are appended to the PDE.

Availability of this file

Availability:

CY 2006-2022

Date Requests Can Be Accepted for Upcoming Releases:

CY 2023 available 12/2024

See what is in this file